KISUMU, KENYA – Eight-time Kenya Chess Premier League champions KCB Chess Club maintained their flawless record over the weekend with three consecutive victories in Kisumu, strengthening their position at the top of the 2025 league standings.
The bankers displayed dominance across all matches, defeating Victoria Warriors Chess Club 3-2, Mavens Chess Club 3½ – 1½, and Victoria Elite Chess Club 3½ – 1½ during the two-day event. The wins saw KCB widen their lead with 21 points after seven rounds, placing them four points ahead of Equity Chess Club, their closest rivals.
Saturday Results: Strong Start
In their first match against Victoria Warriors, Hugh Misiko, Hawi Barry Kaloki, and Elizabeth Cassidy secured critical wins, while Joseph Methu and Joseph Irungu suffered defeats. Later that day, the team bounced back against Mavens Chess Club, where Methu redeemed himself with a victory over Manyeki Nathaniel. Ian Mutuge also earned a point with a strategic win, while Ben Magana was held to a draw. Martin Njoroge secured a walkover, while Joyce Nyaruai was the only loss in the match.
Sunday Victory: Momentum Sustained
On Sunday, KCB wrapped up their campaign with another 3½ – 1½ win against Victoria Elite Chess Club. Victories from Methu, Kaloki, and Nyaruai ensured the win, with Misiko drawing his game and Mutuge losing to Muchiri Rocky.
“We had a good outing this weekend, winning all our matches,” said team captain Ben Magana. “Our attention now shifts to our next fixture against Equity Chess Club. It’s a crucial match, but I’m confident we can maintain the unbeaten streak.”
Magana attributed the team’s strong performance to recent participation in national open tournaments in Nakuru and Kiambu, where KCB emerged as the top corporate team.
“Those tournaments were a great training ground. They gave us a chance to gauge our strength against some of the best players in the country,” he added.
KCB Chess Club now sets its sights on a pivotal fixture next month in Nairobi, where they will face Equity Chess Club. The match is expected to be a defining moment in the race for the 2025 league title.
By Kelly Were
