The inaugural Debswana sponsored chess league is coming to an end this coming weekend and chess clubs go into the high stakes games with their eyes fixed on the crown.
BCF Public Relations Officer Kutlwano Tatolo said the competition has been tough since the start of the league in February and they are looking forward to a photo finish. “We are waiting to see which club will scoop the Championship for the first time. Currently, EnPassent of Gaborone is leading on the log which comprises of 17 teams,” said Tatolo.
BCF also says the two top clubs comprises of youth players unlike other clubs which use senior players only, adding that clubs using senior players only are struggling in the league. “This is commendable for development as it shows growth within our young players,” said Tatolo.
With Debswana sponsoring the league for four years, Tatolo promised accountability to the sponsor to ensure continuity.
The winners of the league will walk away with Gold medals, floating trophy and P15 000 in cash prize money. The runners up receive silver medals and P11 000 while the third placed club will walk away with bronze medals and P9 000.
The fourth, fifth and sixth will get P7 500, P5 500 and P4 500 respectively. Those that will finish in the 7th position to the last position will get consolation P3 000 each. Results will be submitted to FIDE for ratings.
