KCB bags 'Corporate title' at Nakuru Chess Open

The KCB Chess Team was crowned the best Corporate Team at the East Africa Chess Championship held in Nakuru County.

In the open section, KCB’s Brian Irungu delivered a strong performance to finish second with 5 points. The tournament was won by James Madol of South Sudan, who edged ahead with an impressive 5.5 points.

Speaking after the team’s victory, KCB’s Martin Njoroge said: “I am elated having bagged the corporate category with my team. We have an incredible pool of talent and even though we missed some players, we were able to bring the trophy home. After this win. We now shift our focus to the Kiambu Open before the league resumes the week after.”

Another KCB player Boera Felix finished sixth with four points while FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai, who opted to play in the open section, emerged 12th, showcasing the team’s incredible talent.

“I have always played in the ladies’ category but this tournament, I decided to participate in the open section to compete against some of the best talent in the region. The competition was indeed tough but I am happy because I was able to finish at a good place. We look forward to more of such tournaments in the future,” noted FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai.

Other players who competed at the event included Joseph Methu, Hugh Misiko, Ricky Sang, Martin Njoroge, and Philip Singe. Candidate Master Benjamin Njoroge and local champion Robert Mcligeyo were not part of the squad.

The team will participate at the Kiambu Open Chess tournament that will be held at the Rainbow Resort on May 10-11, 2024 before the league resumes the weekend after in Kisumu.