The Maun Chess Academy held an exhilarating seven-round tournament, drawing 24 skilled players from across Botswana to compete for top honours, this past weekend in Maun. In a dramatic finish, Tebogo Pitlagano and Bojosi Sabure emerged as joint champions, securing victory in a field filled with top-level talent.
Public Relations Officer Mpho Motsatsing shared the Academy’s excitement about the event stating, “We host this tournament monthly, but this time we aimed higher, inviting more players nationwide to raise the stakes and challenge some of the best chess talent around.”
Sponsored by Ko Sedineng and Kalahari Breeze, the tournament kicked off early in the morning, bringing together a diverse group of players, including national team veterans like Ignatius Ngobvu and other skilled members of Botswana’s national chess scene, along with dedicated community players.
As the tournament intensified, a focused silence descended over the hall as players locked eyes on the board, each making calculated moves to seize control and checkmate their opponents before the ten-minute rounds concluded.
Pitlagano Tebogo and Sabure Bojosi tied for first place, each scoring five and a half points on the Swiss System, ultimately taking home P875 each. In the second prize category, Simon Bogosi, Badumedi Sasebola, Mosheti Simon, and Ignatious Ngobvu shared the honors with a matched five point draw ultimately leaving with a sum of P175 each. Tuduetso Sabure also earned special recognition, winning the top female prize of P300.
While the tournament was a success, Motsatsing emphasized the Academy’s need for greater sponsorship to sustain and grow the sport in Maun. “This tournament is just the beginning of what we envision for the region. Chess offers benefits beyond the board, and we are hoping for support from those who value the positive impact it can make,” she said.
Maun Chess Academy’s mission extends beyond competition; it aims to empower youth, provide a constructive outlet, and promote wellness. Through tournaments, the Academy hopes to inspire young minds and offer an alternative to risky behaviors by fostering skills like strategy and critical thinking. Motsatsing noted, “Chess sharpens the mind, aiding in subjects like math and physics, and teaches valuable life skills.”
Looking ahead, Motsatsing revealed exciting plans for the Academy. In November, the next tournament will be aimed towards children with an inclusive element that will accommodate players with disabilities and underprivileged children, marking a step toward greater inclusivity. Furthermore, the Academy is preparing to host a FIDE tournament in December, opening the doors to a wider audience of both children and adults in an effort to advance chess in the region.
