Namibia fields 18 for world, African tests

Namibia has fielded a contingent of 18 players to compete at the World Youth Chess Championships in Italy, the World Cadet Cup in Georgia and the African Individual Chess Championships in Botswana.The contingent was sent off at the Namibia Sports Commission in Windhoek on Friday, where acting chief administrator Christophina Hangalo, standing in for chief administrator Freddy Mwiya, who is on international duty, urged the players to deliver.Hangalo described chess as a game of strategy, patience, resilience and courage, which she said are qualities the selected players already possess, having been standout performers at the national championships.“Your selection is a testament to your discipline, dedication and hard work. As you compete against some of the world’s [and Africa’s] finest players, remember to carry the hopes and pride of our country with you,” she said.Namibia Chess Federation (NCF) president and Candidate Master (CM) Charles Eichab said the country has grown in leaps and bounds at the World Youth Chess Championships since making its debut in 2012 in Maribor, Slovenia.“Those [Slovenia debutants] were the pioneering players, who also included our national champion Dante Beukes, who is also part of this year’s contingent to the African Championships in Botswana,” said Eichab.Namibia’s debutHe further added that Namibia’s debut in 2012 also marked the last time the World Youth Chess Championships and World Cadet Cup were held as a joint event.Eichab cautioned the players to remember that while winning is important, resilience, determination and learning are equally valuable.“Every game is a lesson. Every opponent is a teacher. Every round is a chance to show the world that Namibia produces smart, disciplined and very resilient fighters. As a federation, we’re behind you and will continue to create these opportunities for you.”He further highlighted that the event in Botswana offers Namibia another chance to chase podium finishes.“Botswana has always brought us good fortune, and I hope it will do so this time. In 1994, our Fide Master Leonard Mueller won his title there. Despite it being a long time ago, we still believe we can build on that [momentum and repeat the feat],” he said.Namibian contingentThe contingent to Italy left on Saturday, accompanied by head of delegation and NCF vice-president Lucia Namushinga, for the event scheduled from 14 to 27 June in Montesilvano.Namibia will be represented by Alicia Muronga (U14), Bernice Mukumba (U14), Fidel Boois (U14), Twamona Kaluva (U16), Fidel Shekupe (U16), Fritz Hangue (U16), Sibusiso Angula (U18) and Shali Itembu (U18).The contingent to Georgia left on Sunday, accompanied by head of delegation and NCF secretary-general Israel Shilongo, for the event in Batumi from 15 to 28 June.The players are Shadah Uanguta (U12), Firmino Johannes (U10), Jose Muronga (U10), Fransiska Hamukoto (U8) and Penny Shilongo (U8).The Namibian players heading to Botswana will be under the guidance of Bernhard Schwarz, who will also compete for the country in Jwaneng from 18 to 27 June, after the contingent departs this Friday.Schwarz will compete alongside International Master (IM) Dante Beukes, Fide Master Heskiel Ndahangwapo, Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Jamie-Nicole Beukes and WCM Jolly-Joice Nepando.– mariud@nsh.com.na

Namibia fields 18 for world, African tests

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