On August 9, chess players from all over the West Rand came together to battle it out at the West Rand Chess Tournament held at Laerskool Rapportryer.

Tournament director Prince Garishi explained that 162 players participated. The different sections included a junior section for U8, U10 and U12 as well as a Bishops, Rooks, Open and Adult sections.

As it was Women’s Day, all the women in each section received prizes for being the best woman.

“It was a great success. It was our first time having an Adult section and we are hoping to have more adults participating. We would also like to encourage more female players to join. Chess is not just a sport for men, it is a sport where both men and women can participate together. We need to grow chess and attract more female players to join us,” said Prince.

They will be hosting their next tournament on September 6.

“Our message to players on the West Rand is that we must work together to nurture young talent. They are the next generation of Grandmasters, and as a committee, we are fully committed to supporting them,” Prince said.

He continued to thank all the parties involved in making the day a success, including the players who participated.

“We had players from as far as the Vaal and Khutsong that participated. Thank you, everyone, this tournament was a huge success, because of each one of you,” concluded Prince.