Nearly 500 competitors will battle over their boards at the provincial chess championships in Jeffreys Bay, from October 4 to 8.
Both junior and senior age groups are set to tussle for the chance to represent the province, when they compete over four days at the scenic Mentors Country Estate venue in Jeffreys Bay.
SBDCU acting president, Gavin Persent, said that the hosts, Sarah Baartman District Chess Union (SBDCU), will have 150 players participating in the championships this year.
Additional districts participating include Chris Hani Chess Association (107), Nelson Mandela Bay Chess Union (96), Alfred Nzo Chess Association (72), OR Tambo Chess Association (42), Joe Gqabi District Chess Association (22), and Buffalo City Chess (6).
Persent said that the tough tournament involves both girls and boys in individual and team sections, in the age groups u/8, u/10, u/12, u/14, u/16, u/18, Open and Veteran.
Eastern Cape Chess interim president, Luzuko Ndinise, said that chess was a rapidly growing sport in South Africa.
“Chess is providing both youngsters and adults with opportunities to play consistently at local clubs. This promotes growth, and being part of a chess community, or having chess enthusiasts as friends, can be highly motivating,” said Ndinise. “Engaging in discussions, sharing experiences, and playing friendly games can create a supportive environment that keeps up enthusiasm.”
Ndinise said that he and his team were delighted that SBDCU had the opportunity to host this year’s provincial champs, with the sport attracting a record number of new players annually. He said that only a few people realise how gruelling the game of chess is, and how much stamina it requires.
Ndinise said,
“Life is like a game of chess. To win, you must make a move. Knowing which move to make comes with insight and knowledge, and by learning the lessons that are accumulated along the way.”
Persent said that volunteers were largely responsible for keeping the game afloat with chess clubs, parents, teachers, coaches, and assistants working tirelessly to bring chess to as many young people as possible.
“It is a sport that helps bridge socio-economic divides, keeps children off the street, and forges lifelong friendships,” said Persent.
