THE Zimbabwe Chess Federation has named a seven member delegation to represent the country at the 3rd FIDE Chess Olympiad for People Living with Disabilities in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from September 10 to 18.
The team will be led by captain Tapiwa Gora and features Tichaona Machona, Tapiwa Mvududu, Presence Murove and Shantel Gweshe.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation vice presidents David Mutenure and Elvis Shora will accompany the team to the global tournament.
ZCF president Todd Mapingire said the selection reflected the federation’s commitment to creating opportunities for all players to compete on the international stage.
“Chess is a game that continues to break barriers, and this tournament represents the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities within our sport,” Mapingire said.
“We are proud of the players who have earned their places in the team and we believe they will represent Zimbabwe with determination, discipline and pride. Competing at this level gives our athletes valuable exposure and strengthens the growth of chess among people living with disabilities.”
Mapingire said the federation was encouraged by the progress being made through inclusive chess development programmes.
“Our vision is to ensure that every talented player, regardless of their background or circumstances, has a pathway to compete and excel. These international platforms inspire more people to take up chess and show what is possible through commitment and hard work,” he said.
Notably absent from the squad is Prince Musokeri, who made history by winning Zimbabwe’s only medal at the second FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Astana, Kazakhstan, last year.
Musokeri claimed a bronze medal after winning five of his six matches on Board Four, finishing behind India’s Gangolli Kishan and FIDE’s Rasikhin Ihar. His performance helped Zimbabwe place 31st out of 34 teams in a tournament dominated by higher rated opponents.
Presence Murove, who has retained his place in this year’s squad, also impressed in Astana with a 50 percent score on Board Four, finishing 16th in his section.
Zimbabwe will be aiming to improve on last year’s overall performance as it competes against some of the world’s strongest players at the prestigious Olympiad in Uzbekistan.
The tournament provides an important international platform for players living with disabilities while promoting inclusion and excellence through chess.
