Chess champs see impressive wins

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – The Central Region Chess Championships, which kicked off over Easter weekend, was lit with impressive talent from young players across various age groups. This tournament, which took place on April 19 – 20 in Maseru, showcased impressive chess skills for the young boys and girls making for future chess gurus of the Mountain Kingdom.

There was fierce competition in the Under-10 and Under-12 categories with those excelling skill awarded medals as top performers.

In the Under-10 boy’s division, Leseli Letebele secured first place, followed by Nepo Fanyane in second and Bongani Moloi in third.

The Under-10 girls’ competition saw Teboho Selialia taking gold, with Kananelo Mokhotho and Renehiloe Phoofolo claiming second and third places respectively.

The Under-12 boy’s division was equally exciting, with Fako Letsie emerging victorious.

James Kokami and Bongani Mokoma rounded out the top three.

Hlengiwe Phera dominated the Under-12 girls’ category, securing first place ahead of Nthabiseng Mothunyane and Karabo Lefuma.

The remaining age groups (Under-14, 16 and 18) completed their rounds on April 20. Bonolo Ntsielo and Mokhameli Mohale achieved remarkable victories, securing gold in the Under-18 boys and girls divisions, respectively.

Sechaba Maleke took second place in the boy’s division, followed by Pitso Mahasane in third.

Litšitso Khoaisanyane secured the second place in the girls’ division.

In the Under-16 category, Lintša Kamohelo won gold for the boys, with Ntoko Kabeli and Tumelo Putsoa placing second and third. Lineo Kokone was the Under-16 girls champion, and Boitumelo Mokhesi becoming second.

The Under-14 boys’ competition saw Tlotliso Kotelo claim first place, while Junior Rasephei and Mokoma Khotso finished second and third.

Karabo Moremoholo won the Under-14 girls’ division, with Namane Kutlo securing second place.

Meanwhile, the Central Region National Chess Championships qualifying tournament will be on April 26 in Maseru. Players aged 15 and over will pay an entry fee of M100 while ladies and players aged 15 and below will pay M80.

This promises to be yet another exciting event, building on the success of the initial rounds. The young champions from the recent competition will undoubtedly be the ones to watch.