The 22nd edition of the Kenya National Chess Championships is underway at Charter Hall, Nairobi, as 250 competitors from across the country vie for the coveted title. The intense battle, which commenced on Wednesday, features nine rounds of cerebral showdowns to determine the champions in both the men’s and women’s categories.
On the tournament’s second day, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) Chess Club’s Joseph Methu emerged as the frontrunner with a flawless record, leading the pack with a perfect score after three rounds. Methu’s stellar performance saw him surpass top seed Kenneth Omollo of Equity Bank, who suffered a surprising defeat to Lenny Mataiga of Nakuru Chess Club.
In the men’s category, defending champion Mehul Gohil, a three-time winner, faced a tough challenge, ending the day in a stalemate against Moses Andiwoh of Nakuru Chess Club. Gohil, alongside last year’s women’s champion, Joyce Nyaruai, aims to retain their titles, but formidable competition stands in their way as the tournament unfolds.
In contrast, the women’s category saw top seed Sasha Mwongeli dominate the day, securing the leading position with maximum points. As the competition intensifies, participants are not just eyeing the top prize of a brand new Nissan Note but also the opportunity to enhance their mental prowess and secure a spot in the World Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary next year.
Elizabeth Cassidy, a 12-year-old chess prodigy from KCB, emphasized the mental benefits of participating in the national championships, stating, “Chess is a game that inspires, sharpens the brain, and helps with your calculation. It helps with your mental state because it is a brain game.” These sentiments echo the sentiment shared by many participants, highlighting the game’s impact on cognitive abilities and resilience.
As the Kenya National Chess Championships progress, the stage is set for riveting battles of strategy, intellect, and determination, making it a thrilling event that transcends the chessboard and inspires the nation’s aspiring grandmasters.
