Candidate Master (CM) Thuso Mosutha of Black Bishops Chess Club dominated the recent Swazi Chess Open that was staged at Swaziland, Manzini, last week to clinch gold in a highly contested challenge.
The tournament pitted chess heavyweights from across southern Africa and as far as United Kingdom (UK) who went head to head in different sections: (Open and Ladies) section amongst the others.
Mosutha’s ambition was to finish in a podium position in the open section but through his extra efforts he found himself on pole position after collecting a maximum of 5.5 out of 6 available points on offer, after mauling South Africa’s top ranked Ernest Tshabalala by half a point in the finals.
On his way to the finals he brushed aside Jonathan Pein from England, Elisha Chibamu from Zimbabwe and Khaya Mazibuko of South Africa who both settled for 2nd, 3rd and 4th positions respectively.
The Black Bishops youngster attributed his success to his proper preparations prior to the tournament even though the victory came as a surprise.
“I prepared well for this event because I knew that all the best players were going to participate in it and therefore my chances of improving my rankings were high and I had to work very hard at training and also going around seeking sponsorship which was not an easy thing to do alone but I never gave up. The tournament was so difficult but I had no choice but to keep pushing and at some point I was intimidated by some rated players but I did not give them any respect; I just had to calm down and play my game and I won,” he said.
Mosutha further stated that playing and winning against the best in the world boosted his morale and confidence which he believes will also work in his favour in the upcoming season to achieve his goal of becoming an International Master next year.
“I have been lacking in confidence and self belief that’s why I haven’t been winning such tournaments at regional level but now I know my capabilities can drive me to victory,” he added.
Mosutha was amongst the Botswana Senior National Team which represented the country at this year’s Chess Olympiad that was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in September where he earned himself the title of Candidate Master alongside his teammate Otsile Mapini.
“I have achieved a lot this year and I am proud of myself and I believe this was the best year I have ever had in my entire chess career and I am looking forward for the next season,” he concluded.
