Vitalis Mapuranga is the winner of the maiden 2018 Norton chess open hosted at St. Eric’s School on the 2nd of September. Vitalis was tied on first place with Tapiwa Chikwavaire who also scored 5.5 points out of the six games played. The two drew their game. Vitalis won his game against Farai Hamandishe in an interesting fashion which saw him gain a lot of composure. Eventually Tapiwa came second on tie-break rules. The two aforementioned players shared $46 each getting $23 for the efforts. Roy Mwadzura came third with 5 points and he won $15 for his exploits.
There was three way tie for fourth position and these were the players who shared it: Cyril Chigodo, Simon Mujaji and Elton Mhangarayi, each one got $3 for their efforts. On special prizes, Talydine Chaparadza was the best lady with 3/6 winning $12 for her efforts. Praise Sithole was second best player winning $4, while Nyarai Mponda was the third best lady winning $4 as well. Daniel Marumbini was the best under 16 player. Kuziva Mujaji was the best under 12 player. The above players were the winners in a tournament which attracted fifty players which was a good number to start with for a new tourney. Among the players who took part were Ian Mashumba of MSU, Brian Dzvetera of Old Mutual chess club to mention but a few some of the notable names who did not make it in the top five.
Engineer Tinei Munhenzva was the sponsor of the tournament cash prizes which amounted to $100. One of the chess zealots who loves the game so much. This date back to the time that he was a student at Msengezi High school under the guidance of the late Joseph Moyo who is well-known for identifying International Master Farai Mandizha who is now based in the United States of America. The organiser said that he intends to make it an annual tournament and expects to get some corporate sponsors to ensure that there are bigger and better prizes next time.
The tournament was run by Walter Mkundwa as the Chief Arbiter while FA-Elect Admire Mawire also assisted in the running of the tournament. Linda Shaba ensured that the tournament was played as she was also part of the organising team, and ensured that the tournament was played as per player expectations.
Post published in: Featured