At least six junior chess players from KwaNomzamo in Humansdorp, aged between 10 and 15, have been selected to participate in the Sarah Baartman District Chess Union’s Trials in Makhanda on March 23, an exciting opportunity for the youngsters who have excelled in the sport.
The six children, Enzokuhle Twazi (10), Yomelela Pongolo (12), Lonwabo Nota (15), Iminathi Ketshengana (13), Ayakha Mangaliso (14), and Khazimla Mtyaleka (13), are all members of the Douglas Matsha People’s Association (Domapa), where they have received regular chess coaching at Humansdorp Library.
Loyiso Matsha, the club president, said that through chess coaching and tournaments, the children from KwaNomzamo can discover their own talents while staying out of mischief.
He said that the regular chess training has produced good chess players, with Pongolo and Mtyaleka doing exceptionally well.
Matsha said that the six chess players selected to participate in the Sarah Baartman District Chess Union’s Trials recently competed in the first of three rounds of the trials in Jeffreys Bay.
“As part of the requirements to participate in the trials, the children have to be intermediate or advanced level chess players,” said Matsha.
Since they did well during the first round, he said they will participate in the second round, which takes place in Makhanda on March 23.
“All six players who have been chosen to participate in the trials are brilliant,” said Matsha.
Unfortunately the six children and their coach, Zolani Sibengile, need funding to travel to Makhanda for the trials. “Travelling expenses are a problem, because they come from poor families,” said Matsha.
He said that each child and their coach need R800 which will be used to pay the entry fee, transportation, and provisions. In addition, Matsha said they will also purchase tracksuits for each person.
He said that Domapa is therefore requesting assistance from any individual or business who can help with funding. “Domapa will appreciate it if people can come to the rescue of these youngsters,” said Matsha.
Once the second round of the trials has been completed, the third will take place in Graaff-Reinet on May 31, and June 1.
For more info, or to contribute to the chess players and their coach’s trip, contact Loyiso Matsha on 071 381 6226 or 076 971 1476.
