The Sarah Baartman District Chess Union will host the Fountains Mall Open, a Fédération Internationale des Échecs-rated (FIDE) tournament, in Jeffreys Bay on May 17 and 18, with 150 participants expected.
Sarah Baartman District Chess Union was founded by Gavin Persent and Petrus Stuurman in 2017, to offer chess-playing opportunities for players in the Sarah Baartman District.
Stuurman said that when the chess union was established almost seven years ago, their objectives were to host tournaments and trials, conduct talent searches, and support and nurture regional talent.
In addition, he said they planned to engage with stakeholders to bolster chess in the region, and arrange school chess leagues.
“As the custodian of chess in the Sarah Baartman District, the union focuses on empowering arbiters, training coaches, and developing organisers. Through these efforts the union is dedicated to the comprehensive development and promotion of chess within the district,” said Stuurman.
The Sarah Baartman District recorded more than 600 active players last year, he said.
To offer additional opportunities for chess players in the district, Stuurman said they will host a chess tournament at Fountains Mall on May 17 from 18:00, and from 08:30 on May 18.
The tournament will take place at Die Werk, where participants will have the chance to beat the current open category champion, Frederick Odendaal.
“There are six different categories in the tournament, and there are cash and mall vouchers up for grabs for the top three winners in each category,” said Stuurman.
He said that the closing date for registration is May 14 at 18:00, and registration fees range between R30 and R120.
Stuurman said that the renowned FIDE-rated tournament, which is hosted annually at Fountains Mall, draws skilled players seeking international recognition.
“It offers a challenging arena for players to showcase their talents and elevate their rankings,” he said.
Stuurman said that an additional top-rated chess tournament in the district is the prestigious Kouga Mayor’s Cup, which is sponsored by Kouga Municipality, and is hosted annually in April to attract excellent players in and around the region.
Stuurman said that the Kouga Mayor’s Cup serves as a platform for competitive play and community engagement, with participants vying for the esteemed title.
The Sarah Baartman District Union Open Tournament, which is organised by the Sarah Baartman District Chess Union in June each year, brings together chess enthusiasts of all levels from across the district.
Stuurman said that the open tournament fosters a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition, while promoting the growth of chess within the community.
“These events not only provide opportunities for players to test their skills, but also contribute to the vibrancy and development of chess within the Sarah Baartman District,” said Stuurman.
For registration and more info, contact Gavin Persent at 083 408 7364 or email cassidy6191@yahoo.com.
