Local chess tournament

A number of schools in Khutsong participated in the chess tournament that took place at Hlangabeza Primary School on 25 April.
Organised by head coach, Israel Tshabadira and assistant coach, Mandla Katshambe, the tournament began at 08:00, with eager young men and women gathering to compete.

Sixty learners from Tsitsiboga, Nayaboswa and Hlangabeza Primary schools, as well as Badirile and Tswasungu High schools, thrashed it out on the squares until 17:00. Tebogo Magale won the u.15 level with Sibusiso Manqina in the 2nd place and Thabiso Mqekane in third.

At u.13 level, the 1st place went to Mpumelelo Mzimeni, 2nd place to Vuyani Kula and 3rd to Thandi Ngwabeni. Njabulo Moni came first at u.11 level, with Thato Malefetsa and Mpumelelo Dodo in second and third place respectively.

The tournament was initiated to change perceptions that chess is only for the rich, and to show that anyone can do it and become a professional. It also aimed to evaluate the learners and prepare them for the school leagues that start on 6 May. There will also be district competitions for individuals on 15 May. The winners of both the above will compete provincially on 29 and 30 May.

The head coach plans to introduce chess to all Khutsong schools, as well as individuals. The game is very beneficial for youngsters, helping to improve concentration, problem-solving skills, thinking and decision-making and calculating risks. It also teaches children that their actions have consequences.

Tshabadira believes it should not only be implemented in private schools as a subject, but also in other schools.