Equity Bank Chess Club showcased their exceptional skills at the inaugural Kitale Open, outperforming their main rival KCB Bank Chess Club and emerging as the top corporate team.
The event, held at Aturukan Hotel over the weekend, witnessed a remarkable display of talent from Equity players, who claimed the top three positions in the open section and secured the top two spots in the ladies section.
James Panchol Madol of Equity Bank Chess Club proved to be unstoppable as he claimed the tournament victory with a flawless record of six points from six rounds.
In the ladies’ section, Equity’s Madelta Glenda, who is also the reigning world amateurs champion, clinched the first-place title. She was closely followed by Gloria Jumba of the KCB Bank Chess Club and Julie Mutisya of the Equity Bank Chess Club.
The Kitale Open drew a total of 376 participants, including juniors, and received the honor of being graced by Trans Nzoia County Senator Allan Chesang.
Senator Chesang, recognizing the value of sports, emphasized the potential for building connections through athletics and pledged his support as the patron of the Kitale Chess Club.
He also announced his intentions to include chess in the annual Allan Chesang tournament, further demonstrating his commitment to promoting various sports disciplines and supporting outstanding athletes.
Highlighting the accomplishments of St. Monica Girls High School, Chess Kenya President Bernard Wanjala appealed to the county government for assistance in funding their trip to Kazakhstan for the World Schools Team Championship.
Wanjala emphasized that sports, being a devolved function, presents an excellent opportunity for counties to collaborate in nurturing grassroots talent.
Supporting the St. Monica Girls team in this prestigious international event would provide them with a life-changing experience and potentially open doors for future scholarships.
The remarkable success of Equity Bank Chess Club and St. Monica Girls High School signifies the growing prowess of Trans Nzoia County in various sports disciplines.
With the support of strategic partners like the county government, the region can continue to foster and celebrate exceptional athletes, showcasing their skills on both the national and international stages.
