A Grandmaster Exhibition: City Chess Competition and its Influence on Cape Town Libraries

3 mins read
c h

The Chess@Libraries tournament in Cape Town showcased the power of chess to connect people across generations, as over 70 chess enthusiasts aged from seven to 50 came together to compete. The Delft Library emerged victorious, with Lutho Mfazwe being crowned Library Chess Champion for 2023. Libraries have become crucial in nurturing chess talent within their communities, offering accessible space for people to engage with the game. The city aims to encourage children of all ages to learn more about the game at their nearest library, highlighting the commitment to expanding its influence.

A Battle of Wits: The Chess@Libraries Tournament

On October 5, 2023, the Parow Civic Centre buzzed with excitement as over 70 chess aficionados, aged from seven to 50, came together to participate in the exhilarating Chess@Libraries tournament. This event showcased the enduring charm of the game and its power to connect people across generations.

Demonstrating remarkable tactical skills, the Delft Library claimed victory, with Lutho Mfazwe earning the prestigious honor of Library Chess Champion for 2023. Other commendable performances came from Keenan Adams of Heideveld Library taking second place, Ayabonga Mchonisi from Crossroads Library in third, and the top female participant, Khanya Gcuze, also representing Crossroads Library.

The road to the finals began in July, as several libraries across Cape Town competed in elimination rounds. The goal was to select the most skilled players to represent their libraries in the ultimate competition. In the end, 70 players from 19 libraries reached the final round, highlighting the diverse abilities and widespread interest in the game.

Libraries: A Crucible for Chess Talent

Cape Town’s libraries have been instrumental in nurturing the development of chess within their communities. By offering an accessible space for people to engage with the game, libraries have become a center for both experienced players and novices. The only requirement to join a library’s chess team is regular attendance at the library’s chess sessions, eliminating the necessity for membership in a specific club or school.

Councillor Patricia van der Ross, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, is enthusiastic about the growing importance of chess in the city’s libraries. She emphasizes the numerous advantages of the game, often called “sport for the brain,” such as its ability to exercise both hemispheres of the brain, boost creativity, and enhance problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, chess improves concentration and self-esteem while teaching players the significance of following rules.

The Delft Library, home to this year’s champion, has wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of chess. The game has become a daily feature at the library, with its popularity soaring after a single tournament a few years ago. The library has since evolved into a nurturing environment for emerging chess players, who are attracted to its inclusive and supportive ambiance.

A Bright Future for Chess in Cape Town

Recognizing the immense potential of the game, Councillor Van der Ross is keen to extend its influence even further. “The City supports chess as an academic and mentally stimulating sport, and we want to encourage children of all ages to learn more about it at their nearest library,” she says, underlining the commitment to the game’s expansion.

The Chess@Libraries tournament not only delivered an enthralling experience for everyone involved, but it also underscored the essential role libraries have in fostering the game within their communities. As the competition concluded, each participant left with a renewed sense of unity and pride in representing their library, carrying the chess torch forward to inspire countless others to partake in this ageless pursuit of strategy and intellect.

As the chessboard is reset and the pieces returned to their initial positions, a new narrative commences – one that envisions Cape Town’s libraries teeming with ardent players, eager to forge their own legacies and inscribe their names in the annals of the city’s chess history.

1. What is the Chess@Libraries tournament in Cape Town?

The Chess@Libraries tournament in Cape Town is a competition that showcases the enduring charm of the game of chess and its power to connect people across generations.

2. Who won the Chess@Libraries tournament in 2023?

The Delft Library emerged victorious in the Chess@Libraries tournament in 2023, with Lutho Mfazwe being crowned Library Chess Champion.

3. How many players participated in the Chess@Libraries tournament in 2023?

Over 70 chess enthusiasts aged from seven to 50 came together to participate in the Chess@Libraries tournament in 2023.

4. How do libraries in Cape Town nurture chess talent?

Libraries in Cape Town offer an accessible space for people to engage with the game of chess, becoming a center for both experienced players and novices. The only requirement to join a library’s chess team is regular attendance at the library’s chess sessions, eliminating the necessity for membership in a specific club or school.

5. What are the advantages of playing chess?

Chess is often called a “sport for the brain” due to its ability to exercise both hemispheres of the brain, boost creativity, and enhance problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, chess improves concentration and self-esteem while teaching players the significance of following rules.

6. What is the goal of the Chess@Libraries tournament?

The goal of the Chess@Libraries tournament is to select the most skilled players to represent their libraries in the ultimate competition, highlighting the diverse abilities and widespread interest in the game.

7. What is the future of chess in Cape Town?

Recognizing the immense potential of the game, the city aims to encourage children of all ages to learn more about chess at their nearest library, highlighting the commitment to expanding its influence.

8. What is the current state of chess in Delft Library?

The Delft Library has wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of chess, becoming a nurturing environment for emerging chess players, who are attracted to its inclusive and supportive ambiance. The library now has a daily feature of the game with its popularity soaring after a single tournament a few years ago.

Previous Story

Guarding the Western Cape Poultry Industry Against Avian Influenza

Next Story

Delving into Cape Town’s Artistic Soul: Mother City Exhibition Showcases Local Talent

Latest from Blog

Battling Streetlight Vandalism in Kraaifontein: A Community’s Struggle and Hope

In Kraaifontein, a lively part of Cape Town, the community faces a tough battle against streetlight vandalism. Broken lights not only make the neighborhood dark and unsafe but also waste resources meant for other important services. The City of Cape Town is fighting back by quickly fixing the lights and encouraging locals to report vandalism. With teamwork between residents and city officials, there is hope for a brighter, safer future where the community can shine together once more.

The Good Hope Centre: A Legacy in Transformation

The Good Hope Centre in Cape Town is getting a fresh start! Plans are underway to transform this historic site into a lively hub with homes, shops, and spaces for people to enjoy, all while keeping its beautiful dome intact. The city wants everyone to have a say in this exciting change, making sure it benefits the community and boosts the economy. With a rich past as a cultural center, the Good Hope Centre is ready to become a vibrant part of Cape Town’s future, blending its heritage with new opportunities for all.

Discover the My Cape Town Market: A Celebration of Culture and Commerce

The My Cape Town Market is a lively summer event in the beautiful Company’s Garden, where local culture and creativity shine. Each year, it brings together talented artisans and small business owners, showcasing their unique handmade goods and delicious treats. Visitors can enjoy live performances and fun activities, making it a delightful outing for families and friends. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the market is a perfect place to celebrate Cape Town’s spirit and support local entrepreneurs. Join in the fun this December and discover the heart of Cape Town!

Boatica Cape Town: A Celebration of Marine Innovation

Boatica Cape Town is Africa’s biggest boating show, taking place from October 2527, 2024, at the beautiful V&A Waterfront. This exciting event showcases over 70 exhibitors and features cool activities like live boat demonstrations and sailing lessons. It’s a celebration of South Africa’s amazing boatbuilding skills and highlights the potential for jobs and growth in the marine industry. With a lively atmosphere filled with innovation and community spirit, Boatica promises to be a fun and inspiring experience for everyone who loves the sea!

Navigating the Crime Landscape: South African Police Service’s Dynamic Approach

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is taking strong steps to fight crime and keep communities safe. Their big operation, OPERATION SHANELA, led to over 13,000 arrests in just a week, targeting serious crimes like murder and rape. SAPS is also focusing on issues like genderbased violence and drug crimes, with many arrests made for these offenses. With efforts to tackle illegal immigration and improve road safety, SAPS shows a commitment to protecting the public and creating a safer South Africa. Their teamwork and determination in the face of challenges highlight the spirit of resilience in the country.