Moffat Mungazi
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Grand Chess Tour concluded in spectacular fashion last weekend, with St Noah Primary School from Manicaland emerging as the dominant force in the primary school category.
The tournament held at Mweyamutsvene High School in Marange, brought together over 100 learners from various primary and secondary schools across the country, showcasing some of Zimbabwe’s brightest young chess talents.
In the fiercely contested primary school boys’ division, St Noah Primary School asserted its dominance by securing the top two positions.
Eleven-year-old Daniel Mudzengerere clinched gold medal, outplaying his schoolmate, Tinodaishe Gwavava, who finished in second place.
Expressing his excitement, Mudzengerere shared: “I have been playing chess since I was eight-years-old. I have been practicing really hard for this tournament, and it feels amazing to have come out on top.”
The girls from St Noah Primary School also delivered an impressive performance, securing second and third positions in the primary school girls’ category.
Salom Ndachengedzwa and Ruvarashe Mutambara put up strong displays, ultimately finishing behind Divine Shagare of St Paul’s Primary School (Midlands), who claimed the pole position.
In the secondary school division, Mufaro Muparutsa (16) from Mkoba 1 Secondary School (Midlands) emerged victorious in the boys’ category, demonstrating strategic prowess and resilience.
Alisha Gwanzura from Westwood College (Harare) secured the top spot in the girls’ category, further emphasizing the depth of talent present at the tournament.
The Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Grand Chess Tour is an annual event dedicated to fostering the growth of chess among young learners.
Organised by Lannisters Chess Academy, with support from Trendy Accessories Zimbabwe, the tournament aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills in students through the game of chess.
Lannisters Chess Academy co-founder, Vincent Manengamambo, expressed delight at the success of this year’s competition.
“We are thrilled to see so many talented young chess players competing in this year’s tournament. Chess is an excellent way to cultivate essential cognitive skills, and we remain committed to supporting its growth in Zimbabwe’s schools,” he said.
Online Reporter