4,700 players compete in Kenya U-17 Chess Championship

The Kenya National Under-17 Chess Championship attracted a massive 4,700 players from over 200 schools and clubs from across the country. Previously known as the Kenya Schools Chess Championship, the competition was held just before the start of the Kenya Secondary Schools Term Two National Games, which include chess. Antwan Jayson was crowned the Under-7 Open champion after a flawless performance, scoring a maximum 11 points to finish ahead of Yuvaan Shankar and Kieran Chege. In the girls' category, Mitchelle Gichuga claimed the Under-7 title with 11 points, while Emma Emela finished second. Ethan Kiptoo won the Under-9 Open crown with 10.5 points, while Jayne Awuor secured the Under-9 girls' title. The championship served as a platform to identify and nurture the country's emerging chess talent, with top performers expected to represent Kenya in regional and international competitions.