The 2024 Bank Windhoek Namibian Chess Open recently concluded with Zimbabwean Robert Gwaze and Angola’s Esperanca Caxita taking the top honors. The five-day tournament which was held at Windhoek Golf Course, Namibia from the 8th of May to the 12th of May, 2024, saw 108 players competing across four Sections: Open (40 players), Women (16 players), Veteran (4 players), and Junior boys and girls (48 players).
IM Robert Gwaze, making a comeback after years away from competitive chess, as the top seed, lived up to expectations, clinching the open championship title as he dominated the open section with a perfect score of seven points. He outperformed Zambia’s Timothy Kabwe who had 5.5 points and Namibia’s NM Heskiel Ndahangwapo who scored 5 points, they took the second and third place, respectively, and walked home with their awards.
In the Women’s section, WIM Esperanca Caxita of Angola emerged victorious with 6.5 points. Caxita‘s impressive performance included winning five consecutive games and drawing against Botswana’s Keleapere Malebogo in the 7th round. Namibia’s Nicole Beukes and Joice Nepando claimed the second and third positions in this category.
The event showcased remarkable talent and sportsmanship, with Gwaze and Caxita‘s victories highlighting their skill and dedication to the game. The tournament’s prestige and competitiveness were evident in the fierce battles fought over the chessboard, with each player giving their best to emerge victorious.
Their triumphs inspire aspiring chess players, and their achievements will be remembered for years to come.
