Midrand Chess Club’s seniors book their ticket to the semis of Johannesburg Clubs Chess League

The senior team stepped onto the board with determination, ultimately securing an exhilarating second-place finish in the standings, which catapults them into the semifinals scheduled for October 19.

Comfort Makhanya

5 hours ago

Midrand Chess Club player Tshepiso Kekae.

Midrand Chess Club’s senior team secured exciting victories in the play-offs of the Johannesburg Clubs Chess League, positioning them second in the standings and advancing them to the semis on October 19.

The league, hosted by the Midrand Chess Club and Gauteng Province Chess, took place at Halfway House Primary School on October 12.

Midrand Chess Club entered four teams – seniors, juniors first division, juniors second division, and juniors third division. All divisions performed well, though the juniors first division faced their seniors in one round.

A total of 12 teams competed, each with four players of both genders, using a 15-minute rapid time control over six preliminary rounds. “One junior team placed sixth out of 12, which is impressive for their first rapid tournament,” said coach Kgosimang Molefe.

Also read: Midrand Chess League kicks off with energetic spirit

“While our junior teams included only U10 and U16 players, the Midrand senior team finished second and will compete in the finals on October 19.”

Midrand Chess Club partners with Gauteng Province Chess to host Johannesburg Clubs Chess League.

The league is Chess SA rated, and the finals will be in a round-robin format, featuring trophies and prizes.

Midrand Chess Club coach Kgosimang Molefe.

“Juniors first division faced the seniors, and we are proud of the kids who upset some of the older players,” said Molefe. He also congratulated the juniors first division, who ended just three points from the top, as well as the juniors second division, which featured mostly girls, on their first tournament. He was also very proud of the seniors for reaching the semifinals.