AIRFICIENCY INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIPS THIS WEEKEND
Sanctioned by the sport’s global governing body, International Chess Federation (FIDE), the two-day competition is one of the biggest in the local chess calendar.
In a brief interview with Voice Sport, Botswana Chess Federation (BCF) spokesperson Kutlwano Tatolo revealed a bumper turnout is anticipated.
“Because it is the first tournament of the year, we are expecting in the region of 300 players from across the country to compete at this particular tourney,” the PR Officer declared.
The Championships are divided into two sections: the FIDE Rated Open Section, which is open to both male and female players, and the FIDE Rated Ladies Section, which is restricted to women.
First prize in the Open Section pays out P3, 000 while the runner-up will pocket P2, 000 and third gets P1, 000. The next three positions are worth P700, P500 and P300 respectively.
As for the ladies section, the winner will walk away with P2, 000 while second place gets P1, 000. There is also P700, P500 and P300 on offer for position three to five.
One of Botswana’s leading lights in the sport, Candidate Master Thuso Mosutha boldly declared he has unfinished business when it comes to the Airficiency Championships.
“I have played in this particular tournament a couple of times and I have only been within the top 5. However, my aim this year is to at least finish above the top 3, that is when I can know that I did well,” the confident 25-year-old told Voice Sport.
