By David Ndolo
The FIDE World Corporate Chess Championship opened in Goa with a flurry of intense five-minute blitz matches, a format designed to test nerve, speed, and flawless execution. For Team Equity, representing Kenya and Africa, it was an immediate plunge into a high-stakes environment, facing some of the world’s leading corporate powerhouses.
The day’s battles were a stark demonstration of skill and mental fortitude. Every move was critical, every second counted. Team Equity found themselves challenging global giants such as Deloitte, Morgan Stanley, UBS, Microsoft, and Tech Mahindra, their presence a proud statement of African corporate prowess on the international stage. Captain Njagi Kabugu perfectly encapsulated the challenge, stating, “Blitz chess is brutal. You have five minutes to think like a grandmaster and act like a sprinter.”
Amidst the demanding pace, Brian Ovita delivered one of the most memorable performances of the day. In a tense endgame that seemed all but lost, Ovita’s keen tactical eye spotted a narrow chink in his opponent’s defense. With mere seconds ticking away on the clock, he seized the fleeting opportunity, securing a crucial draw. It was a moment of sharp tactical awareness and remarkable composure under extreme pressure, which Kabugu lauded as “a masterstroke of composure and opportunism.”
Beyond the intense competition on the board, Day 1 was a powerful affirmation of presence and pride. Team Equity stood shoulder to shoulder with the best, demonstrating that African corporate chess has a rightful place on the world stage. As the day concluded, with five games played and five more scheduled, Team Equity reached the midpoint of their championship journey. Despite the formidable opposition, marked by narrow defeats in other matches, Ovita’s hard-fought draw stood out as a beacon of their resilience.
FIDE Secretary General, Łukasz Turlej, emphasized the broader significance of Equity’s participation during the event. “This event is unique—it combines chess and business,” Turlej stated. “Equity Bank Kenya can now compete against some of the most recognized companies globally. Beyond the games, it’s about networking and building relationships through a shared passion for chess.” He further added, “We are happy to see Equity Bank here again. Their presence ensures Africa is represented at the highest level, and the team looks motivated to face the world’s top companies.”
As the tournament progresses, Team Equity’s mission remains clear: to continue challenging the established giants and to forge their own narrative, one strategic move at a time, showcasing the depth of talent emerging from Africa.
