FINANCIAL services giant CBZ Holdings has pledged continued support for the Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) activities following the successful hosting of the second edition of the Nationals competition that ended in Harare on Saturday.
The seven-day CBZ National Chess Championships 2024 ended in Harare on Saturday evening with Emarald Mushore and Christine Makwena bagging gold medals in their respective Open and Women’s categories.
CBZ head of marketing, Manatsa Gaka, said chess just like the financial services field is all about calculated risks which made the group fall in love with the sport.
“We are in this for a long haul, we are excited by the opportunity that's there. We have invested more than last year and we feel we have an opportunity to continue to invest in chess,” said Gaka at the close of the presentation ceremony.
“So, what you notice about chess, Blaise Pascal says it's like a gymnasium of the mind.
“The strategic planning, there's calculated risk all the things that you see us doing in financial services so, it's a perfect fit for us. It's a relationship that we are going to continue to cultivate going forward.”
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Mushore won the trophy on nine points, half a point ahead of Vitalis Mapuranga and Fide Master Roy Madzura who took silver and bronze medal respectively.
In the women's division Mukwena, the Easter Open champion, was half a point better than Colleta Wakuruwarehwa and Kudzanayi Charinda who both garnered six points for their respective second and third place.
“Our partnership with ZCF, initially uncertain, has proven to be a valuable endeavour. We’re committed to supporting chess as it parallels our values of strategic planning and calculated risk. Our investment in chess reflects our dedication to nurturing intellect and strategic thinking. At CBZ, our commitment extends beyond the chessboard,” Gaka said.
“Through the CBZ Foundation, we aim to impact education, health and vulnerable communities, forging meaningful partnerships beyond the game. Congratulations to all participants. Your dedication exemplifies the rewards of investing in one’s craft. Let’s applaud the winners and the passion and perseverance displayed.”
Makwena conceded that it was a tough duel enroute to her triumph.
“It was not a stroll in the park, credit to all the girls for putting up a good fight, luckily it was my day I ended up victorious,” she said.
ZCF secretary-general Todd Mapingire expressed joy in navigating the turbulent times with the help of their sponsor.
“The concept of a Nationals seemed distant, but thankfully, it’s now a reality. We anticipated having it last year, but FIDE’s introduction of the World Cup altered our plans, tying participation to Olympia qualifiers,” Mapingire said.
“Later in the year, CBZ stepped in to sponsor a tournament linked to the Olympia qualifiers, complicating matters.
“Despite efforts to clarify, there was confusion regarding the distinctions between the World Cup qualifiers and Nationals, which required extensive discussions with CBZ.”