Close to 71 players participated in the weekend’s Bank Windhoek 2024 Gobabis and Rundu Open chess tournaments.
With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, the tournaments saw the participation of many locals, including high school pupils, teachers, entrepreneurs and other professionals.
The youngest player was eight-year-old Ryne Simuli from Rundu, who won the cadet section.
Otto Nakapunda, Israel Shilongo and Tjiveta Kazembire were the top three Gobabis winners, while Petrus Kawende, McLean Handjaba and Thindhimba Fame Thipunga won the top three Rundu spots.
Rikuvera Zauana and Antonia Shilongo won the Gobabis women’s category. Lucia Shifwaku, Alicia Adriano and Helyvn Mutero were the top three women winners in the Rundu tournament.
Varee Hoveka, Zena Ruhumba and Dylan Karumendu were crowned the winners of the Gobabis junior section while Simon Mbabi, Sakulembe Bosco and Herman Mughongora walked away as the top three in Rundu’s junior section.
The Gobabis cadet category went to Tanatswanashe Katsvara, Ngakarepo Karumendu and Anointed Veii, who were the top three. Medusalem Angula and Chieto Amadeu were the best local chess players in Gobabis and Rundu, respectively.
Giving an overview of the two events, Namibia Chess Federation president Goodwill Khoa said strategic manoeuvres were evident. “The tournaments provided participants a platform to compete in various skills levels, hoping to fill top spots.
“Various players emerged victorious in their sections by demonstrating exceptional skill and consistency throughout the tournament. Others greatly showcased their passion for chess,” he said.