Zhemba crowned chess champ

Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
Jemusse Zhemba was crowned the Zimbabwe Open Chess tournament men’s champion after he got the better of 90 other players finishing on top of the standings in Harare on Sunday. The tournament had some players from Botswana also competing but it was Zhemba who brushed off any challenge that came his way.

Zhemba finished top ahead of second-placed Van Madanhi, third-placed Tafara Dzinzi and Prince Chidembo, who completed the top four places. In the women’s category, Kudzanayi Chirinda came out tops, followed by Linda Hamoonga as Rhoda Masiyazi was third and Constance Mbatha fourth.

Meanwhile Sibongile Chapwanya was elected the new Zimbabwe Ladies Chess Association president at an annual meeting last Friday. Chapwanya has come in to replace Bridget Pumuyo who was heading the association since 2012.

In the new committee Diana Mapanga will serve as vice-president, Lindani Chirambadare is the secretary-general while Coleen Mataga is the treasurer. Speaking at the handover ceremony Chapwanya said she is happy with the confidence invested in her by the members.

“I am so humbled by your confidence in me as leading ZILCA is no mean task and I feel challenged. As I accept this presidency I want to assure you of my commitment to the cause of women and I believe that I will not let you down.

“I will make sure that we will continue with the good work that is left by the outgoing committee as the good works should not die in our hands. I commit myself to working hard and fostering a good working relationship with stakeholders like our mother body Zimbabwe Chess Federation and the Sports Commission,” said Chapwanya.

Outgoing president Pumuyo wished the incoming committee well and said she will be ready to assist when need arose.

“As the founding president of ZILCA am happy to hand over the reigns to our newly elected president. It my pleasure to hand over leadership to one of a sound mind. “I have no doubt that you have what it takes to drive the women agenda.

I believe stakeholders will welcome you and lend you their support,” said Pumuyo.ZILCA was founded in 2012 after repeated failure of women to represent the country in international competitions. It was registered as an affiliate of ZCF.