GOLDSWIFT U1800: AFTER A SUCCESSFUL SECOND EDITION, THE CHESS SHOW RETURNS IN NOVEMBER
More than 180 players took part in the 2025 edition, where Julius Courage successfully defended his title. Now, the Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open is preparing for its third edition, with seven rounds of classical chess scheduled for November.
HARARE, Zimbabwe — The Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open is building on the success of its second edition, which brought together more than 180 players at The Heritage School in Borrowdale, Harare, on 29–30 November 2025.
The tournament attracted competitors from across Zimbabwe, including players from Mutare and Bulawayo, highlighting the growing appeal of a competition designed to give developing and club-level players a platform to test their strength. Julius Courage successfully defended his title, adding another chapter to the tournament's growing history.
Organised with Goldswift Construction as the main sponsor and sanctioned by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, the second edition featured a six-round Swiss-format Open Section, played at a time control of 60 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move. A separate Development Section provided opportunities for younger players to compete.
The event's turnout and competitive atmosphere set the stage for another edition, with organisers now preparing to welcome players back to The Heritage School from 27 to 29 November 2026.
A BIGGER CHALLENGE AWAITS IN THE THIRD EDITION
The third Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open will introduce a seven-round programme for the Open Section, one round more than the previous edition.
Organised by Elite Chess Club and Goldswift Construction under the auspices of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, the tournament remains open to players rated 1800 and below on the FIDE rating list, including unrated competitors.
The Open Section will use a time control of 45 minutes per player, with a 30-second increment per move from the first move. Over three days, competitors will need to combine accurate calculation with sound time management and consistent results to contend for the top positions.
The schedule begins on Friday, 27 November, with Round One at 10:00 AM, followed by Round Two at 12:30 PM. Saturday will feature Rounds Three, Four and Five, while the final two rounds will be played on Sunday, 29 November.
With seven rounds determining the final standings, players will have more opportunities to accumulate points, but maintaining form throughout the weekend will be essential.
DEVELOPMENT CHESS STILL HAS A PLACE
The tournament's focus extends beyond the main competition. The third edition will again feature a Development Section, reserved for players under the age of 10 who were born in 2016 or later.
All five rounds in this section will be played on Saturday, 28 November, with the first round scheduled for 10:00 AM.
The category will recognise young players in the under-eight and under-ten boys' and girls' divisions. The top three finishers in each category will receive gifts, medals and certificates.
By providing a dedicated competition for younger participants, the event creates an opportunity for children to gain tournament experience while encouraging continued participation in chess.
US$300 AND A TROPHY FOR THE WINNER
The stakes will be higher in the third edition, with the Open Section's first prize set at US$300 and a trophy.
The remaining main prizes are US$200 for second place, US$150 for third, US$100 for fourth and US$60 for fifth.
There are also awards for players who excel in specific categories. The best lady will receive US$100, while the second-best lady will take home US$60. The best senior aged 50 and above will receive US$50.
The best under-14 boy and girl, alongside the best under-12 boy and girl, will each receive US$50, a medal and a certificate.
These prizes give competitors additional targets to pursue, making the tournament relevant to a wide range of players within its rating eligibility.
REGISTRATION OPEN AS PLAYERS PREPARE FOR NOVEMBER
Players interested in participating should take note of the registration deadlines and entry fees.
Early-bird registration closes on Wednesday, 18 November 2026, while the final registration deadline is Wednesday, 25 November 2026.
The published fees are as follows:
- Open Section — ZCF affiliates: US$15 early bird; US$20 standard.
- Open Section — non-affiliates: US$25 early bird; US$30 standard.
- Development Section: US$10 early bird; US$15 standard.
Participants must complete the online registration form and attach proof of payment. Only paid-up players will be entered and paired, and places are limited on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: https://forms.gle/6aG57GgwstFQeujN9
For enquiries, players can contact chief organiser Lawrence Tavagwisa on +263 779 193 934 or email admin@elitechess.co.zw.
CAN THE DEFENDING CHAMPION DO IT AGAIN?
Following Julius Courage's successful title defence in 2025, attention will turn to whether he can return to the board and maintain his place at the top, or whether a new contender will emerge in the third edition.
The expanded seven-round format should provide an intriguing test of consistency, while the range of special prizes will give competitors across different categories reasons to fight for every point.
For Zimbabwe's chess community, the Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open has become an opportunity to bring together players from different parts of the country in a competitive environment. Its continued inclusion of a Development Section also ensures that the next generation has a place in the tournament.
With the November dates confirmed, preparations now move towards another weekend of classical chess at The Heritage School.
After the turnout and title defence of 2025, expectations will be high for the third edition. The question is whether Courage can make it another successful defence or whether a new champion will emerge.
The countdown to the third Goldswift U1800 FIDE Rated Open has begun.