When team Uganda flew out for the just concluded Kenya Open Chess Championship, all eyes were on Fide Master Harold Wanyama.
However, a slow start cost him to defend the title but he managed to see off the tournament in remarkable style on Monday afternoon.
The FM drew against Ghanaian Arena International Master Wilson Onuoha in the second round and lost to Jamie Obora Kanango in the round that followed.
It was a disappointing start that denied him an opportunity to play against the Grandmasters, something he was looking forward to.
But, Wanyama was able to shake the disappointment off as he recovered in the fourth round and went on to win all the remaining games.
The performance had him bag seven and a half points, securing the fifth position to pocket 7 million Uganda shillings in cash prize.
“My only regret was not facing the GMs. I started quite badly with 1.5/3 but I was able to gather myself together and win the remaining 6. I am extremely happy with my performance.” Wanyama noted.
Still with Team Uganda, International Master Arthur Ssegwanyi was the other only Ugandan that finished in the prize bracket. Ssegwanyi came ninth with 7 points and walked home with $400.
GM Gareyev Timur from the USA came out as the outright winner of the event with eight and a half points. He pocketed $7000 as the prize money.
In the ladies’ category, three Ugandans finished in the top 10.
They include Peninah Nakabo, Sana Omprakash, and Shakira Ampaire, who all pocketed cash prizes.
By: Rose Agwang
Courtesy photos
