Chess prodigy scales the heights

Shingirai Madondo | Thursday March 6, 2014 08:30

 

Last weekend, the 16-year-old caused a surprised when she finished third after Candidate Master, Onkemetse Francis and FIDE Master Kgalalelo Botlhole in the semifinals at Wingate Hotel in Francistown.

She garnered 4.5 points out seven after flooring Thapelo Francis, a FIDE Master and drawing with International Master, Tshepiso Lopang.  The ‘Queen of 64 Squares’ from Nata has a unique record of winning all the age groups at home and abroad as a junior.

“Qualifying for the Metropolitan Championships finals is a great achievement bearing in mind that those who are going to perform well next month will be drafted into the national team,” said an elated Sokisi. “I feel elated and confident of making it into the national team.

The confidence levels are very high, though I am aware of the huge challenge at the finals next month,” she said. The rising star attributed her success to her teacher and trainer at Mater Spei College, Mothokomedi Thabano, who described his protégé as a hard worker and a dedicated player ready to scale the heights.