AFTER stirring performances at the Minerva Zimbabwe International Open Chess Tournament, excitement is mounting within the local chess community as Zimbabwe prepares to host the inaugural Crystal Candy Development (U16) Tournament.
The games are scheduled for Prince Edward School, Harare, from the 10th to 11th June.
This unique event focused on sharpening the minds of the young is proudly sponsored by Crystal Candy. It is open to children below the age of 16 years, a clear indicator that the future of Zimbabwean chess is in very luminous hands.
The tournament comprises five diverse sections: Crystal Candy Development Section U14 Open, Crystal Candy Development Section U14 Girls, Crystal Candy Development Section U10 Open, and the highly anticipated Crystal Candy Development Section U16 Open. This strategic arrangement allows players of varying age brackets to showcase their skill sets and simultaneously stimulate development across different age groups.
Undoubtedly, the tournament’s star attraction is the Crystal Candy Development Section U16 Open. An array of young prodigies are set to compete for the title. Prosper Matyire, Tinaye Madamombe, Prince Bhobho, Austin Bhongozo, and Phillip Chandiwana are the top five contenders. These names are a testament to the extraordinary young talent emerging from Zimbabwe. All eyes will be on these promising players as they put their strategic prowess to the test in the chess challenge.
Matyire, a brilliant mind and the master of endgames is expected to bring his strategic brilliance to the board. Madamombe, on the other hand, is known for his fearless style and ingenious offensive tactics that have shaken many a formidable opponent. Bhobho, the young genius with an unorthodox approach, could be the tournament’s dark horse, while Bhongozo’s calm demeanour and defensive mastery will be something to watch out for. At the same time, Chandiwana, with his sharp tactical skills, could create an upset in this intense contest.
The Crystal Candy Development Tournament provides a platform for these budding stars to shine and plays a critical role in promoting the sport at the grassroots level. As a tournament that caters for the youth, it fuels their passion for chess and fosters an environment conducive to the holistic development of their tactical abilities.
As the Zimbabwean chess community and fans prepare for this two-day extravaganza, a thrilling showcase of strategic gameplay and fierce competition is in the offing. This tournament promises to be a crucial turning point in the young careers of these talented players and a vital step towards nurturing future grandmasters.
