Be inspired by Jordan Gweshe The Youngest player in HPCL

In this week’s spotlight series, The Harare Pro-Chess League media team sat down with Jordan Gweshe who is the youngest player in the league. Get inspired and enjoy the conversation as you get to know more about Jordan.

Tell us about Jordan Gweshe

My name is Jordan Gweshe aged 11, I am currently in grade 6 at Twin Rivers Primary School. I play for Belvedere Freepiece Chess Club.

How were you introduced to playing chess?

My Dad was the only chess player in our family and I was told he would play games against himself on the dining table. I used to go to him whenever he would play and he saw that I was interested in the game that’s when he started teaching me.

What benefits have you derived from playing chess?

I have had so many benefits from chess which include travelling the world seeing and different places. I have also made new friends and learned about different cultures. Chess has taught me how to be strategic as you have a lot of calculation and patience because of the long hours that games can take and the concentration required.

How do you prepare for a chess tournament?

I normally play a lot of online games and practice with my coaches Elisha Chimbamu, Tapiwa Gora and Eric Takawira.

What challenges have you faced as a chess player in Zimbabwe

Playing chess as a Zimbabwean is very challenging, both locally and internationally as sponsorship to attend the many tournaments is hard to get and as a sport, it does not get the recognition as other sports. In most schools, they still treat it as just a club which puts us at a disadvantage when we face players from other countries where chess is subject.

What is your favourite food?

I like eating pizza and spring rolls.

Who are your chess role models?

Well, my biggest role model is my Dad (Edwin Gweshe) then, Alireza and Magnus Carlsen.

Please recommend one chess book

There are so many but the one that comes to mind is Kramnik. My life and games I like this book.