WOMAN Candidate Master (WCM) Kudzanai Charinda was crowned the 2023 Minerva International Ladies Section Chess Tournament winner at Joina City in Harare on Sunday.
Charinda triumphed after nine rounds, accruing 7.5 points to secure her victory. She shared the first position with WCM Refiloe Hazel Mudodo, both proving to be formidable forces on the chessboard. Their encounter ended in a draw, but both demonstrated exceptional skill and tactical strength throughout the tournament.
Mudodo had a memorable tournament, claiming a crucial victory against South Africa’s Woman International Master Anzel Laubscher. She executed a brilliant strategy in an edge-of-the-seat encounter, leading to an unavoidable mate on the g2 square.
Tatenda Mellisa Zengeni also performed well, securing the third position despite facing stiff competition from Mudodo and Charinda. Meanwhile, Naomi Mwale of Zambia demonstrated her chess skill by ranking among the top finishers.
This tournament, held from May 25 to 28, was a testament to the improving skill of Zimbabwean women in chess, with their dominant performance capturing international attention. The newly crowned champion, Charinda, urged more support for women to participate in international chess events to enhance their development in the game and reach new heights.
WCM Cheila Andre Sitoe of Mozambique and WIM Laubscher and Mwale ended the tournament with six points. Botswana’s April Ndachipiwa Kgomotso, who finished with five points, was another notable participant, especially after her victory over Rhoda Masiyazi in a seemingly drawn position. Masiyazi, who declined a draw offer before her loss, still won the best lady over 50 prize money.
The tournament witnessed fierce competition, with strong representations from South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Botswana.
