Steve Okeyo wins 2024 Kitale Open
Steve Okeyo performed outstandingly, winning the 2024 Kitale Open with 5.5 points out of six rounds and taking home KES 30,000 for his efforts.
Benard Wanjala, the President of the Chess Kenya Federation, shocked friends and foes alike by clinching the silver medal with five points. Heading into the final round, he had 4.5 points and faced Steve Okeyo, who was leading with 5 points. Wanjala needed to beat Okeyo in the final round to emerge as the clear winner, which would give him his first ever tournament vicotry.
However, despite getting a good position out of the opening, Wanjala seems to have lost his nerves and agreed to a draw after Steve Okeyo spun a mating web against his king.
Allan Muggaga, James Panchol, Hugh Misiko, and Brian Gabriel Mwangi also scored five points, but their lower tie-breaks determined their final standings.
All players with 5 points took home KES 6,600 each as part of their cash prize.
Jully Mutisya and WFM Sasha Mongeli emerged as the best lady players with 4 points each.
The event at the Kitale Club was a grand affair, with 64 participants battling it out for the top honours.
Game Corner
Links
2024 Kitale Open on chess-results.com.
James Panchol wins 2023 Kitale Open
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Article by Kenya Chess Masala.