Chess fever hits Rehoboth
The Bank Windhoek 2024 Rehoboth Open Chess Championships Grand Prix Leg 3 recently took place at Dr Lemmer High School in Rehoboth.The championship proved to be a riveting battleground for 44 participants eager to showcase their strategic prowess on board. Spectators patiently awaited the results to congratulate the winners in the open, women's, junior, and cadet sections. With competitors ranging from seasoned players to promising newcomers, the school hall was set for a weekend of intense competition and intellectual engagement.
Lazarus Shatimpambam, Israel Shilongo and William Husselmann won the Open Section’s top three spots. The Women Section went to Anna Moongo, Naletti Nasilele and Tracey-Lee Beukes. Junior Heita, Muundjua Mbahimwa and Tarius Neib were announced as the top three winners in the Junior Section. The Cadet section went to John van Zyl, Kaino Moongo and Tanatswanshe Katsvara.
Sponsored by Bank Windhoek and rated by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the Rehoboth Open Chess Championships Grand Prix Leg 3 was the first in Rehoboth. FIDE-rated events allow players to join the international chess communities and the ranks of professional chess players.
Excitement
The championship began with excitement as players prepared to tackle the challenges of the chessboard. As the games unfolded, skilled players emerged, showcasing their expertise in strategic play. Spectators enjoyed watching the dynamic exchanges between pieces, with knights, bishops, and rooks showcasing their power.
The Namibia Chess Federation (NCF) president, Goodwill Khoa, said he is happy with the progress chess is making in Namibia. He added that with the introduction of international ratings, the NCF has changed the game's dynamics to a more professional approach that attracts more participants, especially the youth. "Young players are becoming more conscious about their life decisions. We have noticed that playing chess has become a favoured sport amongst the youth,” he said.
At the championship, players received a FIDE ID, which gives them a high chance of getting international ratings and allows them to keep track of their progress. Local player Reinold Neib got his first rating this month and can now track his progress as he starts his chess career.