Atwoli dominates Masaku Open

Photo [Courtesy]

Akello Atwoli returned to his pulsating form over the weekend at Gelian Hotel in Machakos to win the 2019 Masaku Open Chess championship.

Atwoli registered 5.5 points to top the standings with a higher tie break than second and third placed Joseph Methu and Mehul Gohil, who also had same points.

Speaking after the victory, Atwoli said consistency since the beginning of the year has played a great deal in his success.

“The year has been good for me; winning in Makini and now Machakos. It’s all thanks to my hard work and consistency.

“I am, however, looking forward to tougher tournaments especially after Methu and Gohil came close to winning here,” he said.

Atwoli won the Njaanuary Rapid Fire Chess Championship at Makini School in Nairobi, while Methu also finished second.

In the ladies’ category, Gloria Jumba emerged the winner with four points, followed by Joyce Ngaruai, who had 3.5. 

Dianah Mugo scored three points to settle for third spot.

Tournament director Winnie Thitu thanked participants while also calling upon sponsors to come on board and promote the sport that is now common among juniors.

“We need serious partners and sponsors in the game to promote this sport. That is the only way through which we will have growth in the sport,” she said.

“This Machakos tournament saw juniors from Machakos Boys High School and Muvuti Boys High School join in the competition and their progress and growth into the game will be achieved through sponsorship,” she added.