Grand Prix chess thrills in Gobabis

Chess
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  • 15 Hours Ago
The Bank Windhoek Grand Prix series reached its eighth leg in style last weekend, as the Omaheke Regional Library in Gobabis was transformed into a hive of strategic intensity and focused competition.

The event drew 55 chess players from across the country, including several titled competitors, adding a fierce edge to an already exciting tournament. Each match was a test of wits and nerve, with silent tension filling the room and bursts of joy as hard-fought victories were secured.

President of the Namibia Chess Federation (NCF), Berdian Beukes, hailed the Gobabis Open as a significant success for the Grand Prix circuit and a landmark for chess in the Omaheke Region.

“The top four players all finished on six points out of seven, with tie-breaks needed to determine the final standings - clear evidence of the high level of competition on the day,” Beukes remarked.

Emerging victorious was Uatiavi Jossy Uapingene, whose only loss came at the hands of Arena Candidate Master (ACM) Lazarus Shatipamba, who finished third. Candidate Master (CM) McLean Handjaba claimed second place, rounding off a highly competitive podium.

A notable highlight was the strong youth participation, with nearly half of the entrants under the age of 20. Among them, 19-year-old Muundjua Mbahimwa Henry stood out, clinching the Best Youth Prize with an impressive 6/7 record—his only defeat coming from CM Handjaba.

In the women’s section, Linekela Itembu emerged triumphant with 5/7, ahead of national team player Tjatindi Kamutuua (3.5/7) and Tuyama Muundjua (3/7) - making it a proud double for the Muundjua family.

In the cadet category, Tanatswanashe Katsvara impressed with 4/7, showing promise in the youngest age group.

Local chess hero Kazembire Tjiveta once again captured the Best Local Prize, marking his fourth consecutive year of excellence in Gobabis—cementing his status as a dominant force on home soil.

Adding a special touch to the day was the participation of mother-son duo Stacey Kamundu and her seven-year-old son Kaunatjike Uongeevandu. While Stacey earned a respectable 3/7, young Uongeevandu edged ahead with 3.5/7, drawing smiles and cheers from onlookers.