Eswatini Chess Federation recently hosted the second edition of the Patron’s Cup and Candidate Master Smilo Hlophe claimed the Cup with an impressive 5 ½ points.
Twenty-three players took part in the open section whilst sixteen battled for the title in the developmental section.
He recorded victories against Nolwazi Nkwanyane, Qiniso Matsebula, Vuyo Nxumalo, Philani Mtsetfwa, and Mlondi Mdluli and draw one game against CM Sikhanyiso Sihlongonyane to claim the cup with an impressive 5 ½ out of six points.
CM Sihlongonyane’s draws against Lunga Malinga and Smilo Hlophe saw him finishing the competition in position two with four points whilst Mbongeni Mabuza was third.
Nolwazi Nkwanyane was the best lady managing 3 ½ points.
In the developmental section, Surprise Ntiwane has a simple assignment which saw him accumulate 5 out of 6 points to emerge as the champion ahead of tournament favourite Knowledge Dlamini.
