SAGE WOOD CHESS CUP: The first Grand-prix Kickoff.
The Sage Wood Open Chess Championship 2024, held from May 16th to 19th at the Nob View Hotel in Ntinda, marked the commencement of Uganda’s Grand Prix Chess Circuit. Sponsored by Sage Wood Limited in partnership with the Uganda Chess Federation, the tournament attracted a lineup of international masters, Fide Maters, Candidate masters and several chess players from Kenya, Somalia, and Sudan. all competing for unprecedented cash prizes and the prestigious Grand Prix positions.
In a fiercely contested Open section, Segwanyi Arthur emerged victorious, showcasing his exceptional skill and strategy. Nsubuga Haruna secured second place, while Egesa Emmanuel claimed third. The competition was intense, with each player demonstrating remarkable resilience throughout the tournament.
The Ladies section witnessed a compelling battle, with Ampaire Shakira clinching the title. Peninah Nakabo followed closely in second place, and Atella Patience took third. The performances in this category showed the growing strength and talent in women’s chess in Uganda.
In the U1900 category, Candidate Master (CM) Kizza Farouk emerged victorious, with Mukose securing second place. The U1800 category saw Dahir Bashir take first place, followed by Baleewa Jimmy.
The tournament also featured special awards, with the brilliance prize going to Rishit from Kenya, recognizing his exceptional and creative play against Mugisha Ivan J. Such accolades added to the excitement and prestige of the event.
Sima Zion of Seta High School delivered a great performance in the junior category, achieving a perfect score of 7/7. In the girls’ junior category, Akot Emmanuella of Gombe triumphed, highlighting the promising future of young chess talent in the country.
ABOUT SAGE WOOD: Established in April 1987 in the United Kingdom, Sage wood Limited is a distinguished organization accredited with ISO9001:2008, ISO13485:2012, and ISO14001:2002 certifications. With regional offices in Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda, and Zambia, and a liaison office in Shenzhen, China, Sage Wood has garnered nearly three decades of international operational experience. Their expertise spans sectors including agriculture, mining, construction, power, laboratory, and medical sectors, along with educational institutions. Sage Wood’s sponsorship of the Open Chess Championship exemplifies their commitment to fostering talent and excellence in various fields.
The Sage Wood Open Chess Championship 2024 is the inaugural event of the Grand Prix circuit, a crucial series for selecting Uganda’s national representatives for both national and international chess competitions. This tournament’s success sets a high standard for the upcoming events in the circuit, promising a season filled opportunities for chess players.
The Sage Wood Open Chess Championship 2024 was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of talent and strategy With its successful conclusion, the chess circuit in Uganda is off to a great start. Players and spectators are already looking forward to the next Grandprix tournaments.
Were Samuel
Photo credit – Mukuye Ivan
