THE CBZ National Chess Championship is set to return to Harare from 8-13 April after a five-year hiatus.
CBZ Holdings are sponsoring this year’s tournament for a total amount of USD 7,000.
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) is organising a national chess championship where top players will compete for the chance to represent Zimbabwe in international events.
The round-robin tournament will feature two main categories for men and women, showcasing the talents of 12 players in each division.
The competition is intense as leading contenders compete for the highly sought-after opportunity to represent Zimbabwe in esteemed international competitions, such as the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, the BRICS Games in Kazan, Russia, and the World Friendship Games.
At a pre-event press conference at Joina City, ZCF Secretary General Todd Mapingire underscored the significance of the event and its crucial impact on chess in Zimbabwe. He conveyed his excitement for CBZ’s support, the sponsor responsible for making the tournament possible.
“This tournament is crucial,” remarked Mapingire. “It is the largest event in Zimbabwean chess, and we are thrilled to have the support of CBZ, who has been instrumental in making this event a success.”
Manatsa Gaka, representing CBZ Holdings, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for their continued partnership with the championship.
“As CBZ Holdings, we’re truly excited to be part of this momentous occasion,” Gaka said.
“We’re passionate about supporting initiatives that promote intellectual development and national pride.”
Acknowledging the intense competition witnessed in previous editions, Gaka assured their commitment to investing in the championship.
“We’ve witnessed the intensity of the games and are confident that this year will be no different,” he affirmed. “Our continued brand sponsorship reflects our dedication to sports development and national progress.”
Gaka emphasised CBZ’s dedication to social responsibility and how they strive to support various initiatives in health, education, sports, and vulnerable communities. He further explained that sponsoring chess was a natural choice as it aligns with their philosophy of investing in the community.
“Chess aligns with our philosophy of investing in the community, making it a natural choice for sponsorship,” he explained. “We’re proud to partner with the ZCF and look forward to a fruitful collaboration in the future.”
IA Simbarashe Murimi will oversee the tournament.
CBZ National Championship Player Lineup
Men Section:
FM Jemusse Zhemba, FM Roy Mwadzura, Emarald Mushore, Tapiwa Jele, Vitalis Mapuranga, Tapiwa Gora, Elisha Chimbamu, Castro Sibanda, Tanaka Katsande, Mugove Muririma
Women Section:
WCM Kudzanayi Charinda, Linda Shaba, Christine Makwena, WCM Refiloe Mudodo, Colleta Wakuruwarehwa, Nomalungelo Mathe, Tatenda Zengeni, Valentine Pasipanodya, WCM Paidaishe Zengeni, Rhoda Masiyazi, WCM Rumbidzai Mawire, Hazel Masango
