CAPE TOWN – Heathfield High’s chess players represented their school with pride and walked away with medals at the Heideveld High School Open Rapid Chess Championship this year.
The competition took place on Saturday 29 November at Heideveld High School.
The tournament consisted of five rounds that lasted five minutes each and was divided into three categories, namely: Championship, Beginners (Unrated) and Advanced / Intermediate.
A total cash prize worth R7 850 as well as a floating trophy was up for grabs for the best school representative in the area.
Podium placements
Overall nine learners from Heathfield High School proved their mettle at this year’s tournament whilst Kyle Kayter (Grade 12) and Munkia Kebolo (Grade 10) earned podium placements in the competitive Intermediate & Advanced Section.
The participating team included learners from Grades 8 through 12: Shema Pacifique, Lingomso Tshaka, Donatio Brikkels, Moagi Mokoena, Surge Bedwell, Kyle Kayter, Iviwe Maloko and Resego Mpshane.
Pair scoops medals
Kayter achieved third place, winning four out of five games to earn a bronze medal, certificate, and R500 cash prize.
Kebolo, secured fourth place in the same section, earning a medal and certificate for his strategic play.
“Their dedication, discipline, and love for the game were evident throughout the tournament,” said school principal, Nadia Annhuizen.
Chess programme expansion
The school’s chess programme continues to expand, with notable growth in female participation, Annhuizen added.
“Both Iviwe Maloko and Resego Mpshane from Grade 9D joined the seven male competitors, marking an important shift toward broader participation in the chess club,” she said.
International Recognition
“What’s most impressive is we have 4 internationally rated players, of which two learners are only in Grade 8. Two of our youngest learners are already internationally recognised chess athletes — an exceptional milestone for Heathfield High School,” she added.
Eight out of the 9 players at the school are Chess South Africa (CHESS SA) ranked as well.
