Kwabena Adu-Poku and Gertrude Banini triumph in 2023 Ghana National Chess Championship

The 2023 Ghana National Chess Championship Finals concluded with grand success as Kwabena Adu-Poku and Gertrude Banini emerged victorious in the Open and Ladies sections, respectively.

The prestigious tournament took place at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra, spanning five days from December 26 to December 30.

In the Open Section, CM Kwabena Adu-Poku, the top seed and defending champion, displayed stellar performance, securing a remarkable 7/9 score and securing his third consecutive national title. A notable highlight was FM John Hasford, a multiple-time national champion, finishing in second place with 6.5/9, marking the only participant to defeat Adu-Poku. Clinton Cephas Fomevor claimed the bronze with 5.5 points. IM Francis Anquandah and Bernard Anhwere, along with the rising star Daniel Frempong-Smart, tied for fourth place, with the former two earning spots on the national chess team (the Golden Knights) due to superior scores in direct encounters.

Final Standings for Open Section:

1. CM Kwabena Adu-Poku - 7/9
2. FM John Hasford - 6.5/9
3. Clinton Cephas Fomevor - 5.5/9
4. IM Francis Anquandah - 5/9
5. Bernard Anhwere - 5/9

In the Ladies Section, newcomer Gertrude Banini delivered a fairy tale ending, securing an impressive 8 out of 9 points and claiming the National Women's Champion title. Zone 4.2 women's Champion Maud Benson finished closely behind, securing second place, while the 5-time National Women's Champion WCM Tobi Felix clinched the bronze with 6.5 points.

Final Standings for Ladies Section:

1. Gertrude Banini - 8/9
2. Maud Benson - 7.5/9
3. WCM Tobi Felix - 6.5/9

The top five players from both the Open and Ladies sections have earned coveted spots on the Ghana National Chess Team, known as the Golden Knights. This achievement grants them the opportunity to represent Ghana at the 45th World Chess Olympiad and the 13th African Games.