Teen chess prodigy Robert Mcligeyo drives off with victory at 2024 KNCC

Teenage chess sensation Robert Mcligeyo has won a car, courtesy of his remarkable victory at the 2024 Kenya National Chess Championship (KNCC). The event, which concluded on Sunday at Makini School in Nairobi, saw the 18-year-old Candidate Master (CM) awarded a brand-new Nissan Note worth Sh1.8 million by the Chess Kenya Federation (CKF).

“I had been completely out of a winning position and I think the nerves got the better of me and I blundered and I think I was completely lost but then got a sudden surge of energy and I was able to push through and eventually win,” said Robert.

In the women’s section, Woman Fide Master Sasha Mongeli successfully defended her title, claiming a cash prize of Sh100, 000 for her efforts.

“I kicked the tournament with a bad start after losing my second round match. I was so devastated but I thank God for enabling me to reach here by emerging as the winner,” Sasha said.

Mcligeyo’s ascent to the summit of Kenyan chess has been nothing short of extraordinary. Representing KCB Chess Club, the teenager claimed the championship crown by dominating the open section with eight points. He outpaced his closest rival and teammate, Jackson Ndegwa, who finished with 7.5 points. Notably, Mcligeyo dethroned his former coach and previous titleholder, Joseph Methu, in the process.

At the 2024 KNCC, Mcligeyo showcased his dominance, defeating formidable opponents such as Shem Aberi (1738), Hadem Nyamiaka (1785), Felix Boera (1891), Brian Kadenge (1843), CM Aguda Lwanga (1845), and his former coach, Methu (1976). He also held his ground in draws against Hillary Sagwa (1854) and Allan Chumba (1832).

The firstborn in a family of three, Mcligeyo’s star continues to rise, with his latest victory solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in Kenyan chess.