Top schools set to compete in Nyanza Region Youth Chess Championship in Kisumu

National Chess Instructor Isaac Ondeng (center) with the winners of Plainsview Chess Tournament (from left to right) Brayden Akwera,Joy Faith,Owen Yalwala and Chrispin Mwendwa.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Anticipation is high as Kassagam Secondary School gears up to host the Nyanza Region Kenya National Youth Chess Championship this Sunday.

This event, organized by Chess Kenya and Victoria Chess Club under the leadership of tournament director Andrew Owili, is set to highlight the region's premier young chess talents.

Owili, the driving force behind the tournament, shared his confidence in the meticulous preparations.

"We have been working tirelessly to ensure that everything is in place for a successful event. The players have been training rigorously, and we expect a high level of competition," Owili stated.

An impressive lineup of schools, including Makini School, Mudasa Academy, Kings and Queens Academy, Jalaram Academy, Kisumu Senior School, Goldfields School, and M.A Junior School, will be participating.

With such formidable competition, spectators can look forward to exhilarating matches and strategic battles on the chessboard.

Joy Faith in action during the Plainsview Chess Tournament in Kisumu.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

To advance to the nationals, participants in the Nyanza Region qualifiers must win at least three out of six rounds.

This requirement ensures that the matches will be fiercely contested as young chess enthusiasts vie for their chance to compete on a larger stage.

After the Nyanza Region qualifiers at Kassagam Secondary School, attention will turn to the Victoria East African Classical Tournament, scheduled for late August.

Both events are eagerly awaited and are expected to play a significant role in nurturing young chess talent in the region.