Harold Wanyama emerged champion in the just concluded Kawuma Open Chess held at Tick Hotel Kawempe, Kampala.
The Fide Master (FM) garnered 7 points out of the possible 8 to win his first ever Kawuma Open.
His loss to Allan Mathias Sonko in the fourth round looked like the number 4 seed was headed for another disappointing tournament considering his failed attempts in the previous editions, but a great comeback against Joseph Kaamu in the 5th round ensured a different script was written this time around.
“When I lost, I forgot about that game” said the soft spoken Olympian. “I always don’t think about the past disappointments” he added.
His wins included a crucial victory over International Master (IM) Elijah Emojong in the 7th round. The duo that has met multiple times gave the fans a master class and thrilling encounter but it was the FM who came top.
Wanyama capitalized on his nemesis’ inaccurate defending and made energetic moves that gave him an upper hand.
“Beating Emojong was very critical, he gives me the hardest time in Uganda so I had to be careful. I had to dig deep”
The 34 year old expressed his satisfaction and delight after scooping the grand prize of 1m Uganda shillings and stated his desire for more success.
“It was a great feeling and it will be the same feeling if I win again”
Wanyama alongside four other players – Haruna Nsubuga, Arthur Ssegwanyi, Patrick Kawuma and Bob Bibasa now qualify for Zone 4.2 Africa Championship that will be held at Peacock Hotel, Dar el Salaam, Tanzania next month.
