James Kabui was the proud winner of the 3rd Village Market Open that ended last weekend. He went home with the cash prize of KES 30,000 (USD 270). The six round event saw a total of 120 players taking part in the Open section. The total cash prize fund was an impressive KES 250,000 (approximately USD 2,200).
A further 220 players in addition took part in the various junior sections. The event was sponsored by The Village Market Mall in conjunction with Bidco Africa, Unga Limited, Prox Chess House, Chess Kenya, KAS and Trademark Hotel.
There was drama in round four which cause a delay in the start of round five. There was a misunderstanding between Kenya National Champion Martin Njoroge and Viacheslav Chvoro of Nairobi Chess Club. Chvoro thought that his position was lost and shook Martin hands only to realise ten seconds later that he wanted to continue the game as he had not yet signed the scoresheet. The arbiters then confirmed that the game should continue only for Martin to lose the game which led to an appeal that was turned down.
3rd Village Market Open on chess-results.com.
Martin Njoroge wins 2nd Village Market Open.
James Panchol wins 1st Village Market Open.
