All is now in place for the staging of the 5th edition of the Minerva Zim Open Chess Championship which is set to begin this week.
The tournament, now a fixture on the regional chess calendar, attracting players from across the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) Zone will run from August 20 - 24.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) president Todd Mapingire, has lauded Minerva for their support for the Zim Open and chess in the country.
"With Minerva's generous support, we are able to create opportunities for all players, regardless of their circumstances,” Mapingire said.
“This tournament serves as a testament to the unifying nature of chess and its ability to inspire hope and resilience.”
Tafadzwa Marichama, the tournament liaison, emphasised the tournament's growth.
"The Zim Open has grown tremendously over the past five years and this year promises to be our most exciting yet,” Marichama said. “We are thrilled to have Minerva Risk Advisors on board, enriching the chess landscape in Zimbabwe and beyond.”
The championship will be held at two different venues to accommodate its various sections. The main events, including the Open, Ladies, and Corporate sections, will be contested at Joina City in Harare.
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Meanwhile, the development section for under-16 players will take place at Dominican Convent School in Harare.
The tournament is expected to draw a diverse field of competitors, including seasoned professionals, aspiring young talents, and international players from the Sadc region.
The Zim Open not only provides a platform for individual skill but also serves to elevate Zimbabwe’s standing within the global chess community.
With the pieces set and the clocks ticking, anticipation is high for a week of fierce competition and strategic brilliance.
In a groundbreaking move that highlights the power of chess to unite and inspire Minerva Risk Advisors has also stepped up as a key sponsor for both the Correctional Service chess team.
Minerva made waves in the chess community by donating chess sets to all 43 correctional prison centers across Zimbabwe.
This initiative aims to provide inmates with a creative outlet, fostering an environment of relaxation and inclusivity.
By enabling competitions that bridge the gap between those inside and outside the prison system, Minerva is championing social change through the timeless game of chess.
