The long awaited Kenya National Youth Chess Championship kicked off at Kisii High and Kereri School on Monday in earnest.
According to Kisii County Sports Committee Saphinah Kenyando, the event is of its kind and the largest in the recent times as it attracted 3,128 players from across the country.
Robert Mackigeyo, last year’s under 18 Chess record holder will be a person to watch in the championship.
After being crowned Kenya Juniour Chess King, Macligeyo represented the Country in Nigeria African Juniour Championship and Olympiad India.
In this year’s competitions, he is likely to face the blossoming Gideon Gekonge and Ricky Muchiri of St. Patrick Iten High School.
In the female category, eyes will be locked on Elizabeth Cassidy, Fantalis Nduta and Staicy Chebet who will try to guard their championship with jealousy among other upcoming competitors.
According Kisii School Principal Fred Mogaka and his Counterpart of Kereri Girls Tabitha Mogonchi, all participants were assured of good accommodation and security.
Mogaka who doubles up as Kisii County Secondary Sports Chairman thanked the Kenya National Chess organizers for decentralizing the traditional Nairobi venue to give schools in the other parts of the country to showcase their talents.
Western Region, Rift Valley region and Central region have previously hosted the championship.
The National Chess Championship coincides with the Kenya Primary School Heads Association (KEPSHA) regional conference being held at Gusii stadium in Kisii County.
By Enock Okong’o
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