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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter

JEMUSSE Zhemba and Kudzanayi Charinda emerged winners at the end of four days of intense competition at the Minerva Zimbabwe Open Chess that concluded at Joina City yesterday.

Namibia-based Zhemba managed 7,5 points and beat tough competition from Zambians Gillian Mwale, Douglas Munenga, Michael Kaoma and Joseph Mwale in the men’s category.

The win left Zhemba in ecstasy after he took home the first prize of US$1 300.

“I am happy with the win. It was a difficult one but I managed to win it,” he said.

With a lot of Zambians taking part and filling in most of the top spots, Malawi’s Joseph Mwale finished sixth while Roy Mwadzura completed the top seven.

Charinda, who was the defending champion in the women’s category, managed 7,5 points and was crowned ahead of Rafiloe Mudodo and Nomalungile Mathe.

Charinda was excited with the turn of events as she compensated for her long lay-off and the absence at the recent Easter Open. She bagged US$1 000 for her efforts.

“The competition was tough and, considering I last played competitively last year, I am pleased with this win.

“There were lots of good players this year and the improvement has been massive,” said Charinda.

South Africa’s Anzel Laubscher and Zambia’s Naomi Mwale were fourth and fifth. Andre Sitoe of Mozambique was sixth while Christine Makwena completed the top seven.