The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe’s 2023 chess season will begin on Friday with a three-day National Championship tournament that is expected to also serve as a World Cup qualifier.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) president Muchanakirwa Mkanganwi expects the tournament to live up to expectations.
“We are expecting fireworks at this year’s event because of what is at stake,” said Mkanganwi.
“The winner, as you know, will receive the privilege of representing Zimbabwe at the 2023 FIDE World Cup later this year.”
More events are lined up for the year.
“We have more events lined up this year, and we expect a very fruitful and exciting chess season ahead,” he said.
International Master Rodwell Makoto, who is based in South Africa and is angling for a spot at the World Cup, arrived in the country on Thursday.
Rodwell is set to battle it out in the open category with fellow national team members Jemusse Zhemba, Spencer Masango and Emerald Mushore.
Roy Mwadzura, however, withdrew from the tournament due to pressing personal commitments.
In the women’s category, Linda Dalitso Shaba will battle it out with Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Refiloe Hazel Mudodo, Christine Makwena and Tatenda Melisa Zengeni, while WCM Kudzanayi Charinda could be the dark horse.
