- Players’ resilience and dedication at the 2024 FIDE World Youth Chess Championships earns them praise
GAZETTE REPORTER
Inspite of the tough competition, Botswana’s young chess talents recently gave commendable performances at the 2024 FIDE World Youth Chess Championships in Florianopolis, Brazil.
This had earned them praise from the spokesperson of Botswana Chess Federation (BCF), Goitseone Makgatle, who has highlighted their resilience and dedication.
In the Under 14 category, Maya Otimile scored 5.5 out of 11 points, placing her 58th among 95 competitors. “Maya fought hard in each round, showing great potential,” said Makgatle in an interview.
FIDE and Poland
The title in this category went to WFM Khafizova, competing under the FIDE flag, while Poland’s FM Patryk claimed victory in the boys’ division.
In the Under 16 section, WCM Laone Phoebe Moshoboro secured 5 points, positioning her 48th in the standings. Her sister, WCM Arona Sharell Moshoboro, competed in the same category, scoring 4 points to place her 41st.
Makgatle acknowledged the sisters’ perseverance, remarking: “Laone and Arona proved that they can stand up to some of the best young players in the world.”
Uzbekistan
The Under 16 girls’ category was won by WIM Khamdanova Afruza of Uzbekistan while FM Javier of Spain clinched the gold in the boys’ division. WFM Karmanova Olga DM of FIDE emerged as the Under 16 girls’ champion, with GM Aleksey from FIDE taking the boys’ title.
Despite the challenges, Makgatle was proud of the team’s effort and commitment. “Even though the results didn’t go our way, the girls gave it their all,” she stated.
“Arona, Laone and Maya should remember that the real winners are those who don’t give up. They have shown that they have what it takes to be true champions.”
Perseverance
Makgatle encouraged the players to continue pursuing excellence in the sport, underscoring the significance of perseverance in achieving greatness.
“I hope they will continue to strive for greatness and never stop believing in themselves,” she added, emphasising the growth they achieved through the experience.
The team is expected to return home on 11 November.