Uganda Chess National team coach Harold Wanyama is confident that his side will produce a good showing at the 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai, India.
Amidst the challenges of financing that caused the uncertainty of making the long trip, up to 10 players will represent the country at the world’s most significant meeting of brains.
According to Wanyama, the players will not be focusing on the tough preparations that they were subject to but must keep their focus on winning their matchups and leaving a mark on the games.
“We’ve built the team chemistry and are focused on winning our matches. We are hoping to start with a bang,” he told NBS Sport from camp in India.
Wanyama, one of the veterans in the team continues to say: “We are well prepared and motivated which is key. We need players to be motivated so they give their best.”
“We’ve come close to topping our group in the past, but this time we want to ensure that we put up a great show in both the men and the ladies.”
Out of the ten players, two will be making their national team debut including 15-year-old Kawuma and Emmanuel Egesa. He is upbeat and excited about the experience and challenge that lies ahead.
“I’m going to bring my A game because this is for my country. Also, it is a chance for me to show the world what I’m capable of,” Egesa explained.
The team consists of FIDE masters Patricia Kawuma, Haruna Nsubuga and Wanyama as well as Woman FIDE Master Gloria Nansubuga and Candidate Woman FIDE Master Shakira Ampaire.
The others are Milley Takali, Peninah Nakabo, and Walter Okas. Patrick Ojok leads the delegation that also has three other officials namely Jordan Teeba, the Men’s captain, Otim Isaac, the Ladies captain and the Uganda Chess Federation president Emmanuel Mwaka who travels as a Delegate.
The team was flagged off on Tuesday from the Skyz Hotel in Naguru for India where they will spend the next 15 takes.
Uganda is among 186 countries that are expected to take part in this year’s Olympiad. The games get underway on Friday, July 29.
