Young chess star aged just 11 eyes nationals
Despite only starting his chess journey in 2023, ‘Musa’, as he is affectionately known, has shown talent and determination.
Eleven-year-old Musawenkosi Khumalo, a learner at Van Riebeeck Laerskool, achieved a milestone by qualifying for the South African Junior Chess Closed Championships (SAJCCC), a tournament reserved for the country’s top 60 players in each age group.
Despite only starting his chess journey in 2023, ‘Musa’, as he is affectionately known, has shown talent and determination.
“I thought chess would fit me and my personality,” he said, explaining how the game naturally resonated with him.
What began as a curiosity quickly turned into a passion after watching the strategy and excitement of chess unfold at school.
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Musa’s rise in the chess world has been impressive. Within a year of learning the game, he was selected for the Inter-Regions Chess Tournament A-team in his age group, competing last December.
His commitment, the support of his coaches, and the encouragement of his mother, Mbalenhle Khumalo, fuelled his progress.
“As his mother, I’ve been actively involved in his chess journey from the beginning, encouraging him, making sure he has the resources he needs, and supporting him at every tournament and milestone,” she said.
Balancing schoolwork, chess practice, and extracurricular activities is no small feat, but Musa manages it with a structured routine.
Besides chess, he shines in public speaking and the performing arts, having recently won in his age group at the Opp Die Planke national finals with the Shifras Drama Studios. He also participates in school-based competitions like Norva Arte.
“Right now, our focus is on maintaining a healthy balance between academics and his various passions.
“We also make sure he has time to relax and enjoy other interests,” Khumalo said, adding that Musa hopes to try karate, soccer and Scouts.
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Preparation for the SAJCCC is already well underway. Musa trains regularly with his coach, analyses past games, and sharpens his strategic skills.
“Qualifying for the SAJCCC is a milestone for him. It’s a validation of his hard work and passion,” said his mother.
His school and the community have played a vital role in his development.
“The teachers have been supportive by recognising his achievements and allowing flexibility when he competes. His chess club and coaches have also been instrumental,” said Khumalo.
Looking ahead, Musa dreams of representing SA on the international stage and earning a recognised chess title, such as a FIDE (chess federation) master.
When asked what advice he would give other young chess players, Musa said, “Stay dedicated, practice consistently and never be afraid to learn from your losses. Chess is a journey, and patience is key to success.”
As a single mother, Khumalo acknowledged that it hasn’t always been easy to keep up with the financial demands of the sport.
“Chess is expensive, and we’ve often had to seek individual sponsors to support his journey. With the SAJCCC being held in the Western Cape, we are incredibly grateful to those who contributed financially and helped make this opportunity a reality.”
