Gobabis hosted the eighth leg of the Bank Windhoek Grand Prix series last Saturday.

The event took place at the Omaheke regional library, which was transformed into a vibrant battleground for 55 players from various regions, who came together for a day of intense and engaging chess.

Among the participants were a few titled players, adding a competitive edge and drawing interest from seasoned players and rising talents. 

The atmosphere was electric, with focused concentration during games, quiet tension as clocks ticked down and moments of joy as victories were claimed.

President of the Namibia Chess Federation Berdian Beukes said the event offered players the chance to gain critical Grand Prix points and improve their national rankings. 

Every match, whether a thrilling upset or a well-fought draw, contributed to the larger journey of the Namibian chess season.

“The Gobabis Open was a successful leg in the Grand Prix circuit and a positive milestone for the sport in the Omaheke region. The event further delivered a tightly contested tournament, with the top four players all finishing on six points out of seven and final standings determined by tie-breaks. This is a testament to the high level of competition on the day,” Beukes stated.

Uapingene Uatiavi Jossy claimed first place, with his only loss coming against Arena Candidate Master Lazarus Shatipamba, who finished third. 

Candidate Master (CM) McLean Handjaba took second place, making the podium a display of consistent and strong performances.

Beukes said nearly 50% of participants were under the age of 20, signalling a promising future for Namibian chess. 

Among them, 19-year-old Muundjua Mbahimwa Henry stood out, earning the best youth prize with a superb 6/7 score, only losing to CM McLean Handjaba.

In the Women’s Section, Linekela Itembu stood out with 5/7, claiming first place. 

Tjatindi Kamutuua, a seasoned Namibian national team player, secured second place with 3.5/7. 

In contrast, Tuyama Muundjua placed third with 3/7, a proud day for the Muundjua family, as her brother Henry won the Best Youth Prize.

In the cadet category, Katsvara Tanatswanashe impressed with 4/7, showcasing potential in the youngest division.

The Best Local Prize was once again claimed by Tjiveta Kazembire, marking his fourth consecutive year winning with distinction in Gobabis and showcasing a remarkable streak of consistency and dominance on home turf.

A heartwarming feature of the event was the participation of a mother-son duo, Stacey Kamundu and her seven-year-old son, Kaunatjike Uongeevandu. 

Stacey scored a respectable 3/7, while young Uongeevandu edged his mom with 3.5/7, earning smiles and support from spectators and fellow players alike.

Beukes said the remaining legs of the Grand Prix series, the Gobabis Open, reaffirm the importance of consistent support, passionate players and collaborative partnerships in elevating chess to greater heights in Namibia.