The 2023 Ghana National Chess Championship saw CM Kwabena Adu-Poku win his third consecutive title in the Open section, while newcomer Gertrude Banini triumphed in the Ladies section. Both champions will represent Ghana at international events as members of the Golden Knights chess team.
The 2023 Ghana National Chess Championship concluded with two 10-player round-robin tournaments, the Open and Ladies sections, held from December 26 to December 30 at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra. Participants included the top five highest-rated players in each section, along with the top five finishers from the qualifiers held earlier in December.
In the Open Section, CM Kwabena Adu-Poku reclaimed his title with an impressive score of 7 out of 9 games, marking his third consecutive national championship victory. FM John Hasford secured second place with 6.5 points, being the sole competitor to defeat Adu-Poku. Clinton Cephas Fomevor earned the bronze medal with a total of 5.5 points. IM Francis Anquandah, Bernard Anhwere, and rising star Daniel Frempong-Smart tied for fourth place, with the first two qualifying for the national chess team, named the Golden Knights.
The Ladies Section featured a remarkable debut performance by Gertrude Banini, who scored an impressive 8 out of 9 points, ultimately becoming the National Women’s Champion. She finished ahead of Zone 4.2 Champion Maud Benson, who placed second with 7.5 points, and five-time National Women’s Champion WCM Tobi Felix, who secured bronze with 6.5 points.
The top five players in both sections will represent Ghana as members of the Golden Knights at the upcoming 45th World Chess Olympiad and the 13th African Games. This successful championship reinforces the strength and talent within Ghana’s chess community.
The 2023 Ghana National Chess Championship showcased outstanding talent in both the Open and Ladies sections. CM Kwabena Adu-Poku and Gertrude Banini emerged as champions, continuing a tradition of excellence in Ghanaian chess. These victories ensure their places on the national team, the Golden Knights, poised to represent Ghana internationally. The tournament highlighted the skill and competitive spirit of participants, contributing positively to the growth of chess in the country.
Original Source: www.fide.com
