KCB delivered an outstanding performance at the recently concluded Mavens Open Chess Championship in Nairobi, Kenya.
The team showcased its dominance after Candidate Master Benjamin Magana secured the second place in the open section with seven points. Meanwhile, FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai clinched the ladies’ title, emerging as the overall winner with an impressive 5.5 points.
Speaking after the win, Magana said: “It has been a bit tough because we have been playing three games a day. KCB players have been imperious since the start of the tournament. We recruited young blood into the squad to bolster our chances of winning the league. Last year, we did not do quite well but we expect to shine in the new season.”
Gong Thon Gong of Maven Chess Club was the winner in the open section following his excellent 7.5 points. He walked away with KES50,000, while KCB’s Magana who garnered seven points to emerge second walked home with KES30,000.
In the highly contested ladies section, KCB’s Joyce Nyaruai won KES25,000 while Mutisya Jully of Equity Chess Club, who emerged second with five points was awarded KES25,000. Her teammate Sasha Mongeli who finished third got KES3,333.
In the university category, Karan Ezekiel of the University of Nairobi bagged the award with seven points while Mushila Angel Khasiani of Strathmore University finished second and was awarded KES5,000. KCB’s Mutuge Ian finished second in the U25 category. He walked home with KES5,000.
KCB Chess Team was named the best corporate club, while Mavens Chess Club was awarded KES10,000 and a trophy for emerging as the best club in the competition. The University of Nairobi was named the best university and received KES10,000 and a trophy.
KCB Chess Team now shifts its attention to the upcoming Kisumu Open Chess Tournament slated for March 22–23, 2025 at the Grace Ogot Hall in Kisumu County.
