G. WanderaUgandan Wabwire wins inaugural Mashariki Open Chess Tournament 2023
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 18.12.23. | 15:02
In second place was Lenny Matiga, who also scored 7 points but with a lower tie break.
Nine-year-old Uganda’s Ronald Wabwire from Uganda's Kamwokya Treasure Life Center (KTLC) beat all odds to emerge as the winner of the inaugural Mashariki Open Chess Tournament 2023 at the Verona Hotel in Ruiru.
Over three intense days, Wabwire secured maximum points in the seven-round tournament, showcasing his remarkable skills and determination.
Organized by the Gift of Chess, the tournament brought together 431 players from Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, spanning junior players (U8 to U18) and senior players (FIDE rating under 1799 ELO as of November 31st, 2023).
In second place was Lenny Matiga, who also scored 7 points but with a lower tie break.
Third place was a tie among three players.
Francis Michuki from Knight Chess Club, James Kabui (Anchor), and Jeremiah Machar from Kenyatta University finished third after collecting 6.5 points.
Aggrey Oliver from Joytown Special Secondary School won the Persons with Disabilities category after collecting five points.
Players from Mavens Chess Club dominated the junior categories as they won the first two positions.
Oluchiri Achieng collected 5.5 points to emerge as the winner in the under-8 category, beating African champion Nathaniel Manyeki, who collected 5 points.
In third place was Jayden Kiai from the Knight Chess Club. He collected 5 points.
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In the under-12 category, Don Muiruri was the winner with six points. In second place was Rishit Rivet.
Kaloki Hawi won the under-16 category.
According to Tournament Director Philis Ngigi, inclusiveness underscored the tournament’s ethos of embracing chess enthusiasts from all walks of life and abilities.
“The event resonated with a vibrant mix of talents, backgrounds, and ages, fostering an atmosphere of unity, mutual respect, and a collective passion for the game,” said Ngigi.
The grand FIDE-rated tournament received immense support from key partners, including FIDE, Chess Kenya, Opening Master, Business Meet Chess & Kids, Sanewan, Stemtrix, Delish & Nutri, Miwaki brands, Prashar Family, Dominos, and Great Thinkers Chess Academy.
Certificates of participation were awarded to all participants, and Mavens Chess Club earned recognition as the Best School/Club category.
The tournament concluded with a triumphant note, celebrating outstanding talent and embracing diversity in the chess community.
