Zambian teenager shines at Botswana International Invitation Ladies Section

Zambian teenager conquers Botswana women

Zambian chess whiz kid, 18-year-old Epah Tembo has won the Botswana International Invitation Ladies Section in style, after emerging unscathed after nine rounds, and sweeping aside a strong field of Botswana national team players.

All Africa Games 2011 medalists, Ontiretse Sabure, Boikhutso Mudongo, as well as the national women’s champion, Thapelo Francis were also in the list of skulls the Zambian teenager collected on her way to pocketing the P3,000 first prize money and trophy.

Kgalalelo Botlhole who two years ago was crowned African Champion ahead of the Zambian, also bowed to her chess prowess in Round 2 when the Zambian put one over her. Gorata Leso, another member of the Botswana women’s team could only manage a draw against the marauding Zambian in round 3, while national women’s champion, Thapelo Francis was also held to a draw as Tembo’s success continued.

Then Boikhutso Mudongo, who has won several titles – both internationally and at home was beaten by the teenager in Round 5. She repeated the feat on another former national champion Ontiretse Sabure in Round 8.

Sabure also recently returned with a medal from the just ended 2011 All Africa Games. In Round 9, leading the pack with 7.5 points, and chased by Mudongo with 6.5 points, the Zambian played to a draw with another Botswana player, Katisenge Keinese, but on other table. South African youngster Marx Inge pulled a surprise and beat Mudongo.