Equity's Teen Chess Prodigies Conquer National Titles, Drive Away New Cars!

Nairobi, Kenya – January 2nd, 2026 – Kenyan chess experienced a seismic shift this week at the National Chess Championship. At the forefront of this revolution stood 14-year-old prodigy Jadon Simiyu and the formidable Jully Mutisya, who not only seized national crowns but literally drove away with their glory – each winning a brand-new Nissan Note. Their triumphs anchored a historic sweep by Equity Chess Club, which dominated the podiums, signaling a powerful new chapter for the sport in Kenya. The invite-only championship, an 11-round gauntlet featuring Kenya's chess elite, showcased strategic depth and tactical ferocity. When the dust settled, the young lions and lionesses of Equity roared loudest, claiming an unprecedented four out of six podium finishes and both top honours, solidifying their status as the nation's premier chess powerhouse. Fourteen-year-old FIDE Master Jadon Simiyu's meteoric rise culminated in clinching the Open Category title with a commanding 8 points, outmaneuvering a field of veteran grandees. His performance showcased tactical precision, steely psychological poise, and an uncompromising drive. A triumphant Simiyu declared, "This title means a lot to me. I've worked for it move by move... I hope my journey shows young kids that discipline and belief can take you anywhere, even to the very top.” Hot on Simiyu’s heels, another teen sensation, FIDE Master Kuka Kyle, secured second place with 7.5 points, ensuring an Equity 1-2 finish in the Open section. Kyle floored several chess giants, notably veteran and former national champion Ken Omollo, where an audacious sacrifice secured his victory. "When I sacrificed a piece... it allowed me to prepare for the last game," Kyle reflected. KCB Chess Club's CM Robert Mcligeyo completed the Open podium. The Ladies Category saw an equally thrilling intra-club showdown. Woman Candidate Master Jully Mutisya emerged victorious on tie-breaks, finishing level on 8 points with her Equity teammate, Woman FIDE Master Sasha Mongeli. Mutisya’s campaign was a masterclass in positional play and unyielding endgame resilience. "I had to bounce back psychologically... and adjust to convert small advantages," Mutisya explained. "I want women and girls to know that they belong here — at the top tables, competing and winning.” Nicole Albright of Mavens Chess Club took third, but the top two spots belonged to Equity. This championship strongly affirmed Equity Chess Club's strategic investment in talent development. Securing the top two positions in both categories is a historic achievement, showcasing their deep talent pool and effective competitive preparation. Equity coach Moses Andiwoh, proud of his champions, stated, “This is a very sweet victory... What stood out was consistency, where my players moved with clarity and confidence. This is the standard needed to succeed locally and internationally.” Equity's global reach, through major international tournaments, has exposed players to diverse styles, visibly contributing to their domestic supremacy. This wasn't just any tournament; it was the culmination of a year-long grind. Entry into the National Chess Championship was fiercely earned through the rigorous Chess Kenya Grand Prix series. This ensured only the most proven and consistent performers participated, guaranteeing a high-stakes battle of wits from the very first move. Beyond prizes, the championship served a dual purpose: Kenya's official selection event for international duty. The top five players in both sections now qualify to represent Kenya at the prestigious World Chess Olympiad, adding immense weight to every strategic decision. Bernard Wanjala, President of Chess Kenya, lauded the champions: "The talent demonstrated... represents the future of Kenyan chess. Our investment in youth... is paying off. Kenya is a rising star in the African chess scene.” Chief Arbiter Anthony Kionga agreed, “This was one of the most competitive championships... The future of chess in the country is secure, noting that most of the winners are Gen Alpha and Gen Zs.” Jadon’s father, Aggrey Simiyu, added, "This win reflects years of sacrifice, early mornings, and belief in his dream.” For thousands of aspiring players, the 2025 National Chess Championship has been a profound inspiration. Jadon Simiyu and Jully Mutisya, backed by the powerhouse Equity Chess Club, are not just champions – they are the standard-bearers of a vibrant, youthful, and dominant new era in Kenyan chess. Top 3 Results Open Section 1. FM Jadon Simiyu (2056) – Equity Chess Club — 8 points 2. Kuka Kyle (1943) – Equity Chess Club — 7.5 points 3. CM Robert Mcligeyo (2113) – KCB Chess Club — 7 points Ladies Section 1. WCM Jully Mutisya (1864) – Equity Chess Club — 8 points 2. WFM Sasha Mongeli (1862) – Equity Chess Club — 8 points 3. Nicole Albright (1744) – Mavens Chess Club — 7 points