After dominating in the nation of Zimbabwe the ladies team did not disappoint. They performed as expected and won a gold medal in the Confederation of University and Colleges Sports Association ( CUCSA) games which were hosted by Botswana from the 16th of June to the 21st of June.
These games were birthed in Lusaka, Zambia on the 18th of August, 1990. The venue of the tournament was the University of Botswana and the players who performed for the country are: Nomalungelo Mathe who was on board one, Nyashanu Cynthia board two, Mashayamombe Samantha on board three and Bhebhe Buhlebenkosi on board four. Mahla Chelsea and Mangwayana Grace completed the team list for Zimbabwe.
The ladies played six games two against each country and they won five and drew one against the hosts Botswana to cap a fine performance of a scintillating tournament. Initially Botswana lost 0.5-3.5 against Zimbabwe. They were the only team that managed a draw in the final round of the tournament. This was a round robin tournament which included four nations Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi, and Zambia.
Botswana had the following players in their team : WFM Tamuhla Londani who was on board one, Sebalo Thandiweboard two, Motshusi Nchidzi board three, Kalayakgotsi Kenosi on board four, Mosutho Jane and Sefalho Goitseone on boards five and six respectively. Zimbabwe defeated Malawi 3-1 and 4-0 respectively, while they defeated Zambia 3.5-0.5 and white wash respectively. Eventually Zimbabwe won a gold medal with 20 points followed by Botswana who scooped a silver medal with 14 points and the third position as well as the bronze medal went to Malawi with 8 points. Zambia came fourth this time around.
The tournament raised the bar for the Zimbabwean ladies who made a remarkable effort in securing the gold medal.
The young coach for the side Lewis Kahoba would not hide his joy after the team became victorious. It was a scintillating performance from the team and these results show teamwork and effort by the team.
From left: Samantha Mashayamombe, Nomalungile Mathe, Cynthia Nyashanu, Grace Mangwayana, Chelsea Mahla, Lewis Kahoba and Buhlebenkosi Bhebhe
The next port of call for the team will be to represent the continent at the FITSU games to be held at a date to be advised.
1 comment
well done team Zimbabwe chess ladies team. This is a move in the right direction. kudos. Keep the fire burning!!!