Midrand Chess Club’s Rapid Tournament makes all the right moves
The game of kings took centre stage in Midrand as local players battled it out during the Midrand Chess Club’s seven-round Swiss rapid tournament.
Midrand Chess Club’s Rapid Tournament continues to gain momentum, marking yet another successful event on October 11 at Halfway House Primary School.
Read more: Midrand Chess Club gears up for Rapid Tournament with rising stars to watch
The seven-round Swiss rapid competition drew 48 eager players, with categories ranging from U8 to U18, showcasing the region’s growing passion for the game.
In the junior section, Lethokuhle Maphanga emerged as the overall winner, while the development section was dominated by Arkan Khalife, who impressed with a perfect 7 out of 7 score. The development section produced some of the day’s most exciting matches. Rising talent Tebogo Ntseare, who was crowned best female player, narrowly missed defeating Arkan in the final round, and Tshepiso Kekae was the best female for the juniors.
Club coach Kgosimang Molefe described the event as a major success. “It turned out to be a great tournament with a solid turnout. We had a few late registrations, but we were prepared to accommodate everyone. The enthusiasm from players and parents made all the difference.”
Participants included players from Midrand, Tshwane, and even children from the New Jerusalem Children’s Home, many of whom received their first official chess ratings through the event. “Several new players now have official ratings under the Johannesburg Metro Region. That’s a big step forward in their chess journeys.”
Also read: Triumph of rising chess stars sets tone for Midrand tournament
Molefe said the tournament offered valuable lessons for both players and organisers. “We learned a lot, and plan to host the tournament every two months in 2026. We’ll also be introducing a full-year calendar, to help players register on time and avoid delays.”
He added that the event revealed key developmental areas for young players, but also showed tremendous promise. “It took a lot of courage for some of the newer children to compete. Each tournament helps them grow in confidence and skill.”
The tournament was a true community effort, with parents volunteering and senior club players assisting alongside arbiter Sanele Mthombeni to ensure smooth operations.
Looking ahead, the Midrand Chess Club hopes to attract more sponsors and players to strengthen the growth of chess in Midrand and the surrounding communities.
To know more about the club, contact Kgosimang Molefe on 073 494 3478 or [email protected].
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