Andrew
Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE Chess Federation acting president Mucha Mkanganwi has implored the national team to be worthy ambassadors of the sport and give their all when they travel to India for the 44th edition of the World Chess Olympiad.
Zimbabwe is among 180 countries expected to grace the event, which is slated for July 28 to August 10 in India.
“I am very confident in the quality of the team as we have the talent, experience and desire to excel.
“We are doing the best we can for our senior team to create the best environment for them to compete at their best,” said Mkanganwi.
“This is an opportunity for the team to put chess on the spotlight in the country and make our work easier in terms of efforts to popularise the game.”
The Zimbabwe chess team, which boasts of both experience and youth, will be led by South Africa-based international master Rodwell Makoto.
The men’s team also has Spencer Masango; current Zimbabwe chess champion Jemusse Zhemba; Emerald Mushore; and Roy Mwadzura, who is making his debut at the tournament.
The ladies team comprises of woman candidate master Kudzanayi Charinda, Linda Dalitso Shaba, Christine Makwena, Hazel Refiloe Mudodo and Tatenda Zengeni.
The Zimbabwe team will hope to improve on their last appearance at the World Chess Olympiad, which was held in Batumi, Georgia, in 2018, where they set a new record by finishing as the second-best African country after Egypt.
Online Reporter