dyton mupawaenda
Takudzwa Chitsiga-Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE will, for the third time, take part in the FIDE Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners to be held from October 11 to 13.
The championship, organised by FIDE in partnership with the Chicago Cook County Sheriff Office in the US will see local inmates converge at Chikurubi where they will square off with some of the world’s elite chess players serving time.
As the sole African representative in the inaugural edition, Zimbabwe stunned the world by reaching the final, narrowly losing to Mongolia by a slim one-point margin.
This year Zimbabwe has added another feather as they will also have a women’s team.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation said they are happy to be part of this year’s edition where they are looking forward to improve from last year’s outing.
“The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) is proud to announce that Zimbabwe will be participating in the third edition FIDE Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners.
“This year, the Zimbabwe Chess Federation is excited to announce the inclusion of a women’s team for the first time, showcasing the commitment to promoting gender equality and diversity in the sport of chess,” they stated.
The team selection process for this prestigious event took place during the Commissioner General’s Behind the Wall Chess Tournament held on June 10 and 11. With 100 teams from 46 countries registered, the third Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners promises to be an even more significant and competitive event.
“The Zimbabwe Chess Federation, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS), is working diligently to ensure that the Zimbabwean teams are well-prepared and ready to make a positive impact in the tournament.
“As ZCF we are grateful to FIDE and the Chicago Cook County Sheriff Office for organising this global event and providing an opportunity for prisoners to engage in meaningful competition and personal growth through chess.
Online Reporter