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Takudzwa Chitsiga, [email protected]
Roy Mwadzura and Christine Mukwena are Zimbabwe’s new national chess champions after three intense days of competition at Joina City in Harare, victories that secure them places to represent the country at the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, in September.
Mwadzura sealed the men’s open title with 6.5 points after holding his composure in the final rounds of a tightly contested championship. Defending champion Tapiwa Jele, finished second on six points while three time former champion Emarald Mushore took third place with 5.5.
The Harare based player said the result reflected the depth of competition now emerging on the local circuit.
“I am happy with the win because the competition was tough,” said Mwadzura.
“The sixth round was very important for me. I knew I had to stay calm and focused. The players pushed each other in every round and that made the tournament very competitive.”
His victory places him at the front of Zimbabwe’s preparations for the Olympiad later this year where the country will test itself against some of the strongest chess nations in the world.
Mukwena delivered a commanding run in the women’s section, finishing clear of the field with six points.
Linda Shaba and Kudzanayi Charinda shared second place on 5.5 points after chasing the leader through the final rounds.
Mukwena said a strong start across the three days laid the foundation for her title run.
“I am happy with the win. It was three days of very intense chess but I managed to start well and remain focused,” she said.
“I have been training a lot and it is good to see young players coming through and challenging us.”
Zimbabwe Chess Federation president Israel Mapingire said the championship revealed a new wave of players beginning to push the established names.
“We could be seeing a changing of the guard,” said Mapingire.
“One of the youngest competitors in the women’s section was only 14 and the determination from the younger players was impressive.”
The open section also featured four debutants, further evidence of fresh talent entering the national circuit.
Mapingire said the federation was pleased the tournament went ahead despite financial difficulties after a potential sponsor withdrew shortly before the event.
“We are grateful the players still turned up and competed even without sponsorship,” he said.
“That commitment says a lot about how much the game means to them.”
Mwadzura and Mukwena will now form part of Zimbabwe’s team for the Chess Olympiad, the sport’s biggest global team event, where the country hopes to build on the momentum shown at this year’s national championship.
Online Reporter