Young chess players from various schools gathered at Northern Academy Primary School on Saturday to take part in the Capricorn District Chess tournament.
Participants could earn points to secure a spot in one of the teams that would represent the province at the South African Junior Chess championships scheduled to take place in Boksburg in January next year.
The tournament’s public relations officer (PRO), Thapelo Makgoba indicated that in excess of 300 players competed on the day and that medals and certificates were at stake for the winners. He further stated that the tourney was for players in the u.10, 12 and 14 divisions, adding that the district would be represented by 14 teams of six to ten players each at the nationals.
While Makgoba was satisfied with the turnout, he however stressed that the sport does not, like other sporting codes, get the exposure it deserves. He reckoned that chess could grow to great heights if parents, schools and community organisations would encourage youth to take part in it. He applauded provincial chess president, Tebogo Malatsi for being hands on when it comes to the promotion of the sport in Limpopo.
“We are planning to host tournaments for the disabled in the future. We wish chess could be added to bigger provincial tournaments. For the first time in history of the Capricorn District Chess Competition, we received a sponsorship from a national branded foods and beverages group and we are grateful,” Makgoba explained.
The group’s provincial account manager, Jackson Maapa said they had sponsored 15 cases of water and flavoured milk each as a token of appreciation to their loyal customers.
The next tournament for the u.16 and u.20 divisions is scheduled for 11 May at Northern Academy Secondary School.
Results
u.10
Temosho Kgaphola.
Pedrie Janse van Rensburg.
Juanco van Zyl.
u.12
Benrico Louw.
Masiyele Sebetola.
Mulanga Ramfumedzi.
u.14
Maemo Mokukwana.
Khayalethu Mokgehle.
Medupi Ramaphala.
Story and photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
