National chess champion Fide Master (FM) Joseph Mwale has finished third in the Bojonala Chess Tournament in Rustenburg, South Africa.

The chess gladiator tied on five points with South African International Master (IM) Johannes Manyedi Mabusela, who settled for the runner-up slot after a tie-breaking system separated them. South African FM Banele Mhango won the event that attracted over 180 contestants with 5.5 points.

Mwale is also expected to compete in other tournaments, play simultaneous games with children under Tswane Chess and attend training workshops.

“I am happy to have taken third place despite not having enough preparation for the event. This tournament will help me get back to top playing level,” he said.

Chess Association of Malawi (Chessam) spokesperson Francisco Mwangupili said they are proud of Mwale’s performance on the foreign stage.
“He made his own initiative to participate in this tournament and that demonstrates his passion for the game and desire for international competition,” he said.

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