The second edition of the Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open delivered another exciting weekend of competitive chess, with over 180 players converging at The Heritage School in Borrowdale, Harare, recently.
The two-day event, organised by Zim Chess Consultancy (Pvt) Ltd with Goldswift Construction as the main sponsor, and sanctioned by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, showcased the growing depth of Zimbabwe’s developing chess talent.
Speaking to The Sports Hub, tournament director Lawrence Tavagwisa said this year’s edition drew participants from across Zimbabwe including Mutare and Bulawayo.
“The tournament, played under a six-round Swiss format with a time control of 60 minutes plus a 10-second increment, attracted competitors from across the country including players from Mutare and Bulawayo reflecting its rising reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s most competitive development events for U1800 players,” Tavagwisa said.
“Emerging at the top of the table was Julius Courage, who successfully defended his title with a composed and mature performance.
“The event ended in a five-way tie at 5.5/6, with Courage taking the top spot on tiebreaks.
“Merit Mpofu and Innocent Zinhu secured silver and bronze respectively after a close and highly competitive finish.”
The event was also marked by several notable upsets, particularly from ambitious juniors who outplayed higher-rated and more experienced opponents contributing to an atmosphere of excitement, tension, and high-level competition throughout the rounds.
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Tavagwisa also expressed pride in the steady growth and impact of the tournament and also thanked the headline sponsor Goldswift Construction for their commitment.
“The Goldswift U1800 has quickly become an important platform for emerging players who want to test themselves in a competitive, FIDE-rated environment. This year’s turnout and the quality of play show that Zimbabwean chess is moving in the right direction,” he said.
“A major contributor to the success of the tournament has been the unwavering partnership with Goldswift Construction, the main sponsor since the inaugural edition,” he said.
Goldswift Construction CEO Budwell Nziramasanga reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting youth development.
“We believe in creating opportunities for young people to grow, not only in sport but in character, discipline, and resilience,” he said.
“Chess embodies these values, and we are proud to partner in nurturing the next generation of thinkers and competitors.”
Nziramasanga also thanked the various partners who sponsored the event highlighting the importance of corporate synergies in sports and community development.
“This year’s edition was further strengthened by the valued support of several partners and sponsors among them Vidette Events, Union Hardware, Fumati, Eden Vine, Planet Pharmaceuticals, Young Chess Masters Academy, and the Zimbabwe Chess Federation who contributed to the event’s success,” he said.
“Their collective involvement ensured a well-organised tournament experience from logistics and equipment to prizes and operational support.”
The Heritage School once again provided a professional and conducive venue, offering a spacious playing hall and an environment befitting a national-standard chess event.
Players, officials, and spectators praised the school for its hospitality and efficiency, with many expressing enthusiasm for future collaborations.
With its second edition now successfully concluded, the Goldswift U1800 continues to cement its place as a premier development tournament on the national calendar.
Organisers have hinted at even bigger plans for the next edition as they work to broaden participation, enhance competitiveness, and further strengthen Zimbabwe’s chess ecosystem.
