Joina City in Harare will host the 2023 Minerva International Open Chess Tournament from May 25-28.
Zambia’s International Master Gillan Bwalya, the defending champion for the Open Section, will be ready to deliver a powerful performance. Yet, local challengers like FIDE Master Jemusse Zhemba, Emerald Mushore, Spencer Masango, and Roy Mwadzura stand ready to protect their home turf.
In the Ladies Section, Kudzanayi Charinda, a two-time Zimbabwe Women’s Chess Champion, Christine Makwena and Dalitso Shaba, are among the leading contenders.
This prestigious event will feature both Open and Ladies Sections to spotlight the brightest chess players.
Titled players enjoy free entry, and the Swiss Manager system will determine pairings, ensuring exciting, suspenseful match-ups.
The tournament guarantees a fair share of the prize fund for players finishing on the same points. However, players will be awarded up to one cash prize in the same event to ensure equal opportunities.
In the Open Section, the top-ranked player will walk away with a grand prize of USD1,300, along with a coveted trophy and gold medal.
The runner-up and third-place finisher will receive prizes of USD700 and USD500, respectively, accompanied by silver and bronze medals.
Additionally, the tournament will recognize outstanding performers in various categories, including Best Local Player, Best Over 50, and Best Under 20, each awarded with cash prizes and gold medals.
In the Ladies Section, the stakes are equally high, with a rewarding prize pool awaiting the top contenders. A handsome sum of USD1,000, a trophy, and a gold medal will grace the first-place winner, while the second and third places will be honoured with USD500 and USD400, respectively, plus silver and bronze medals.
Presiding over the competition with a keen eye for fairness and integrity will be Chief Arbiter IA Simbarashe Murimi.
Hosted by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation and sponsored by Minerva Risk Advisors for the third year.
