All set for Plainview Academy Chess Tournament in Kisumu

Junior chess masters Bryden Akwera and Joy Faith will be seeking to defend their gold titles when the second edition of the Plainview Academy Junior Chess Tournament kicks off on Saturday in Lolwe, Kisumu.

The duo emerged as the top boy and top girl respectively last September when the first edition was played under strict covid-19 protocols.

Akwera topped overall ahead of 22 juniors who participated in the chess tourney after amassing five wins with a tie break of 23.5 points.

Akwera defeated Morely Nasike, Joy Faith, Shantel Otieno, Gregory Hawi and Darren Damian as his only defeat came at the hands of Owen Yalwala.

Faith, the best girl, had four wins and a tie break of 19 points. She defeated Triumph Karama, George Giovani, Troy Odindo and Bruce Imani with her two defeats coming at the hand of Dramian and Akwera.

Speaking to the Standard Sports ahead of the second edition, Tournament Director Isaac Ondeng who is also a National Chess Instructor said the second edition has attracted external schools and will be an open tournament.

He urged more schools in Kisumu to register their students as more students registering and participating will not only increase the level of competition but also the learning academic performance which is some of the benefits that come with playing chess.

“We are targeting more than 50 students in this second edition where we have neighbouring schools showing interest. This shows growth in the board game as we aim to take chess to another level in the western region.”

“Through chess, students improve their general learning skills; learn important social/interactive skills and an important array of intellectual skills. Many countries have officially recognized the value of learning chess and have integrated chess into the curriculum,” said Ondeng.

Sapphire School and Kings and Queens Academy are some of the schools in Kisumu that have confirmed participation.