Shatipamba, Hamutumwa crowned Rehoboth Open champs

Arena Candidate Master (ACM) Lazarus Shatipamba and Gracia Hamutumwa were crowned champions of the open and women’s sections, respectively, at the first leg of the Bank Windhoek Rehoboth Open last weekend.Held at Dr Lemmer High School, the tournament featured 20 players battling it out in what organisers described as a cosy and enjoyable event that provided young players a platform to hone their strategic prowess.Shatipamba clinched the open section gold medal, ahead of second-placed Basheer Mutodzaniswa (silver) and Elias Ananias, who settled for the bronze medal.Meanwhile, the women’s section saw the Hamutumwa sisters, Gracia and Azariah, scoop the gold and silver medals, respectively, as the sole contenders in their category.Special recognition awards were also handed out: Tarius Neib was named best local player, Wilhelm Hainghumbi best junior player and Calvin Kasonde best cadet.Namibia Chess Federation (NCF) vice president, Candidate Master (CM) Max Nitzborn, who served as the tournament arbiter, said the cadets brought energy to the event and were eagerly asking whether they would win medals.“Answering these questions required careful balance. I had to encourage their ambitions and ensure they remain motivated, while preparing them for the reality of the competition,” he said.He highlighted that one cadet was frustrated about adults being part of the competition, fearing they would ruin his chances.“I had to counter this perspective and remind him that the only way to win is by beating the adults. I stood firm in the belief that they should take the opportunity to go up against seasoned players as a learning experience,” Nitzborn said.“As the organiser, I had to issue stern warnings to noisemakers to restore focus in the playing hall. I also found myself correcting youthful newcomers and imparting good sportsmanship to them as they attempted to tease their opponents.“I ruled on checkmates and illegal moves, smiling as I guided players toward understanding what had just unfolded. Watching their expressions shift from confusion to realisation, and witnessing them play like a patzer one moment and like a true master the next, was a joy in itself,” he remarked.Nitzborn recounted one particularly endearing moment when a little girl walked up to him before round seven and “confidently declared that her sister should also be awarded a gold medal”.“This moment was a reminder of the simple but deep belief children have in fairness, along with the playful innocence that makes every tournament truly special.”He further expressed gratitude to Bank Windhoek for their continued support of Namibian chess tournaments and to Dr Lemmer High School for sponsoring the use of their venue.“Thank you to all participants, parents and coaches for your dedication and support in fostering chess development. It was inspiring to witness the growth of our young players throughout the event.”- mariud@nsh.com.na

Shatipamba, Hamutumwa crowned Rehoboth Open champs

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-05

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Shatipamba, Hamutumwa crowned Rehoboth Open champs

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-05

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