CM Robert Mclingeyo and WFM Master Sasha Mongeli emerged as the champions of the 2024 Kenya National Chess Championship (KNCC) held in the Makini School, Nairobi.
The winner of the open section, 18-year-old CM Robert Mcligeyo, was awarded a brand-new Nissan Note worth Sh1.8 million (approximately $14,000) by the Chess Kenya Federation (CKF).
Eighteen-year-old CM Robert Mcligeyo, the winner of the Open section, was awarded a brand-new Nissan Note valued at Sh1.8 million (approximately $14,000) by the Chess Kenya Federation (CKF). Representing KCB Chess Club, Mcligeyo delivered a remarkable performance, clinching the title with eight points. He edged out his closest rival and teammate, Jackson Ndegwa, who finished with 7.5 points.
Mcligeyo’s ascent to the summit of Kenyan chess has been nothing short of extraordinary. Along the way, he dethroned his former coach and defending champion, Joseph Methu. His victories included wins against strong opponents such as Shem Aberi (1738), Hadem Nyamiaka (1785), Felix Boera (1891), Brian Kadenge (1843), CM Aguda Lwanga (1845), and Methu (1976). He also held his ground with draws against Hillary Sagwa (1854) and Allan Chumba (1832).
“I had been completely out of a winning position and I think the nerves got the better of me and I blundered and I think I was completely lost but then got a sudden surge of energy and I was able to push through and eventually win,” said Robert about his final-round game.
This marks the fifth consecutive year Chess Kenya has awarded the national champion a car, a tradition that has inspired many junior players.
“Our goal is to use sport to impact lives and give youth an option of succeeding through chess. Next year we will have two cars for open and women section,” said Benard Wanjala, Chess Kenya President.
In the women’s section, WFM Sasha Mongeli successfully defended her title, claiming a cash prize of Sh100, 000 (approximately $775) for her efforts. The ladies' event was highly competitive, with four players tying for first place with a score of 7/9. Sasha secured the championship based on the second tiebreaker—achieving the highest number of victories.
“I kicked the tournament with a bad start after losing my second round game. I was so devastated, but I thank God for enabling me to reach here by emerging as the winner,” Sasha shared.
Text and photos: Chess Kenya
