Defending champion Sasha Mongeli drops point at ongoing National Chess Championships
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 12.12.24. | 18:22
KCB’s Jumba Gloria rated 1680 delivered a surprise performance to hold Mongeli to a draw
Defending champion Sasha Mongeli dropped her first point in the quest to defend her title on Thursday, the second day of the National Chess Championships at Makini School.
KCB’s Jumba Gloria rated 1680 delivered a surprise performance to hold Mongeli to a draw.
It was an impressive result for the KCB player considering that her opponent is the highest rated player in the ladies category.
On board two, Joyce Nyaruai who finished runners-up last year also drew her game against former national champion Lucy Wanjiru.
Wanjiru who won the ladies' category in 2019 has been missing in action over the last year and her draw is a big motivation for her dreams to make a comeback.
14-year-old new sensation Nashipae Bella (1488) stunned Nicole Albright (1694) registering an upset in the ladies category.
Albright, making her debut after becoming a mother will undoubtedly look to bounce back stronger in the coming rounds.
Equity Bank’s Julie Mutisya (1809) dominated former World Amateur Ladies Champion Madelra Glenda (1652), delivering a game that was anything but amateur.
The reigning National Junior Ladies Champion, 14-year-old Kaloki Zuri (1737), showcased her youthful brilliance by overcoming Awuor Concillia Ndegwa (1602).
In the open section, national under-12 and African champion Jadon Simiyu lost to Ben Magana inboard one.
Despite a valiant effort from the youngster, Magana ranked 2069 was helped by experience.
National Junior Champion Hawi Kaloki made short work of seasoned player George Ochieng on board two.
This blitzkrieg game was the shortest, proving that Kaloki isn’t just playing games—he’s playing to win.
Three-time national champion Mehul Gohil rated 1995 stayed in touch with the leading pack as he won his match against Sirat Omar (1778).
Robert Mcligeyo (1992) continued his winning streak against university talent Nyamiaka Haden (1785).
Defending champion Joseph Methu (1976) reminded everyone why he wears the crown, overpowering veteran Lwanga Charles Karoli (1770).
The sparks flew on Board 16 as U16 junior champ Jamie Obora (1643) forced a thrilling draw against KCB’s elite Brian Adorwa (1843).
And on Board 29, Mulaga Geoffrey (1855) was toppled by the unrated underdog Kamau Hezon Gichuki (1529).
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