“The rapid growth of chess in South Africa has contributed to keeping children off the streets, out of court, and winning at life.”
These were some of the benefits of chess that officials spoke about at the Eastern Cape Chess Championship finals in Jeffreys Bay on October 8.
Nearly 400 regional competitors, playing for positions in the provincial teams, competed over four days at Mentors Country Estate, hosted by the Sarah Baartman District Chess Union (SBDCU).
The tournament incorporated girls and boys from u/8 to veterans, with several districts represented, including SBDCU, Chris Hani Chess Association, Nelson Mandela Bay Chess Union, OR Tambo Chess Association, Joe Gqabi District Chess Association, and Buffalo City Chess.
Speaking at the prizegiving ceremony, Kouga deputy mayor, Timothy Jantjes, praised SBDCU for their well-run tournament and welcomed parents, players, and officials to the host district.
Eastern Cape Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture assistant director in sport development, Avile Qowa, said that her department was impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the chess clubs and organisers.
“This is our first year assisting with chess, and we saw parental involvement, social cohesion, and a playing field on which everybody, black and white, no matter where they are from, are equal,” said Qowa.
“We have a winning nation through sports development here, from grassroots level and up.”
Eastern Cape Chess interim president, Luzuko Ndinise, said that the popular sport gave hope to all children, particularly those from disadvantaged and rural areas.
“Chess is a vehicle for showcasing talent, building our communities, educating children, and helping them above and beyond the game,” said Ndinise.
