Chess players gear up for national champs

Chess players from the Capricorn district observed International Chess Day at Northern Academy Secondary School on Saturday.
The day also served as a qualifying round for the South African Junior Chess Championships to be held on dates and venues yet to be confirmed. Some 150 u.16 and u.20 players from various schools in the district locked horns with the aim to accumulate as many points as possible to better their chances of competing on the national stage. The last qualifier for the u.16 and u.20 is set for 17 August.
Capricorn district chess tournament Public Relations Officer, Thapelo Makgoba indicated that although the tournament was well attended they still need more youngsters to join the sport. He added that players who participated on Saturday showed commitment and passion for the sport. The top finishers in each age group were rewarded with medals and certificates, Makgoba explained and pleaded with companies and individuals to assist the sport financially.
Uhone Nndwamato won the u.16 category followed by Lwazi Selepe and Lethabo Moremi in second and third place respectively. Karabo Makhura was the winner of the u.20 category with Thato Selema, second and Keabetsoe Mphahlele third. The qualifying round for the u.10, 12 and 14 is scheduled for Saturday at Northern Academy Primary School.

Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za