NCF honours excellence at the 2023 awards

The Namibia Chess Federation (NCF) marked a historic moment in its legacy as it hosted the 2023 Annual Chess Awards, an event generously sponsored by Bank Windhoek and the Namdia Foundation.

The awards ceremony, held for the first time since the pandemic, went beyond the usual certificates and recognitions by introducing cash prizes and trophies to commend outstanding achievements in the world of chess.

The NCF executive, responding to the desires of its members, undertook the responsibility to recognise the 2022 league champions, who missed out on a ceremony and prize-giving due to the challenging circumstances of the previous year. This task was embraced by the incumbent executive committee members, who seamlessly integrated the 2022 champions' acknowledgment into the 2023 awards.

Despite the difficulties faced by the NCF in 2023, the perseverance and hard work of the chess community led to a significant partnership. Bank Windhoek emerged as the main sponsor, marking the beginning of a promising collaboration aimed at fostering the growth and development of chess in Namibia.

The chess awards aimed to celebrate past successes and introduce the nation to various award categories that highlight the multifaceted functions coordinated and executed by the federation throughout the calendar year. While budget constraints limited the awards to five categories out of a potential 10, the NCF's executive committee, in consultation with the sponsors, ensured a meaningful and impactful event.

The executive committee, driven by a desire to initiate a tradition with growth potential, introduced these categories with the hope of inspiring chess players and coaches to strive for excellence throughout the year.



Categories:

1. Best Zone: Awarded to the most active chess zone among the 10 NCF zones, showing 80 to 90% engagement in allocated towns and cities. Recognised for hosting NCF events and fostering a vibrant chess community.



2. Media video: Bestowed upon the media platform or reporter with extensive coverage of NCF events, both locally and internationally. In cases of a single media platform, the award goes to the standout crew or presenter.



3. Media print: Awarded to the media platform or reporter offering comprehensive coverage of NCF events for free, emphasising support from newspapers, both local and international.



4. Golden ticket: Initiated by The Namdia Foundation, this special award supports chess talents by allowing participation in NCF open events without a registration fee. Golden ticket holders may also receive transport assistance. Valid for 12 months, with renewal eligibility upon usage.



5. Venue Cat 1 and Cat 2: A token of appreciation to hosts displaying outstanding hospitality by welcoming the NCF more than three times a year during chess events and tournaments.

The winners, selected through a meticulous process by the NCF executive committee with input from sponsors, were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the chess community. The 2023 Annual Chess Awards not only recognised excellence but also set the stage for future growth, emphasising the transformative power of dedication, hard work and individual initiative in chess.