Botswana Chess Team recently took part in the 40th Chess Olympiad in Turkey,Istanbul.The two teams from both man and female category went into the competition after two weeks intensive training by top trainer from Russia Grandmaster Igor Glek.
The chess Olympiad brought together over 160 countries on the greatest chess stage, reminiscent to the soccer world cup.With a starting ranking of 107,the men’s team finished on 85th position in overall and attaining 6th position in Africa.In one of the best achievements in Botswana Chess,round 1 saw providence Oatlhotse totally outclass a top Grandmaster from Argentina .Chess grandmaster are highly revered in chess and Providence’s victory was the first of its kind in the history of Botswana Chess.Oatlhotse who is now an International Master went on to finish the tournament with an impressive score of 6 out of 10games.Oatlhotse is the first International Master in Botswana and the only player to have won the National championship 4times.
The three times national champion Ignatious Njobvu was honoured with the Fide Master title after an impressive score of 75%.Njobvu who only lost one game set the record for the highest score for Botswana at the Olympiad over the past 26years.The Botswana men’s team had a complimentary of very strong players in Barileng Gaealafshwe,FM Phemelo Khetho and Cinky Boikanyo.
The Botswana Ladies team had a very tough run but their performance was redeemed when Tshepiso Lopang was bestowed the Woman International Master Title.Tshepiso’s title followed her impressive performance at the zonal tournament that was held in Madascar.The new debutant into the team,Onkemetse francis increased the title tally as her score earned her the Candidate Master title.
The team’s inspiration was heightened further by the presence of BNSC chairperson Mr Solly Reikeletseng.Reikeletseng had an opportunity to have a word with the team and had meetings with high ranking officials from the world chess body.
