Tatenda Ndou shares her chess secrets
The Side Chat series aims to introduce to you our readers, the Players and Teams that are participating in the 2023 Harare Professional Chess League.
Tell us about Tatenda Ndou
My name is Tatenda Ndou, I am a final year Applied Mathematics with Economics student at the University of Zimbabwe. I have just turned 23. Currently, I play for The Immortals Chess Club in The Harare Professional Chess League
How were you introduced to playing chess?
I saw a chessboard and asked my cousin Mandla Ndaba about it. He taught me how to play chess. My interest grew much that I started practising with my siblings. I got so good at it and in two weeks’ time, I was already a candidate in High School Competitions.
What benefits have you derived from playing chess?
Apart from teaching me that hard work pays off, chess has taught me that action or inaction has consequences therefore I have learnt to thoroughly consider my choices. I have also become more confident and this has boosted my social status winning me some student recognition awards such as the Presidential Awards. I love that I also get to travel a lot to places in and outside of Zimbabwe, meet new people, build individual friendships and learn new things.
Chess, has taught me that sometimes you need to create your own opportunities and sometimes you shoudnt wait for too long to make a move because the perfect time may never come or it may come too late.
How do you prepare for a chess tournament?
Practice with my teammates and siblings, analyze games and solve puzzles.
What Challenges have you faced as a chess player in Zimbabwe?
When travelling for tournaments outside Harare the most worrisome thing has been accommodation. As a woman you need a place that is safe and dignified, this is not easy to find.
I have also struggled to get proper coaching because there seems to be no focus directed at lower-level players so I rely on learning through playing club chess here and there. I wish there was someone who could focus on nurturing my play.
What is your favourite food?
My favourite food is spaghetti bolognese and meatballs with orange juice
Who are your chess role models?
Anish Giri
Please recommend one chess book
Chess Endgames For Kids by Karsten Muller
[Photo Credit/Steward Bank Easter Open Tournament hosted by ZCF]
It’s nice to get to know you better, Tatenda Ndou. Thank you, Harare Chess Organisation, for such a wonderful cause, and keep up the good work. Tatenda, you’re a competent player who is well versed in the game.
Wonderful, keep on moving
Anish OP
Proud of you my baby. Keep going and shine.
That’s great work you are putting out there. Keep it up and keep inspiring others too.
Thank you so much Millicent for the support
Keep going girl ?? i am soo proud of you
[…] Spotlight Side Chat with Farai Hamandishe April 19, 2023 April 19, 2023 admin Home Spotlight Side Chat with Farai Hamandishe The Side Chat Series caught up with Harare City Chess Club player Farai Hamandishe and managed to get a peep into his world Side Chat with Tatenda Ndou […]
I’m here to confess that you is one of the best talent I have ever met at this game. I’m very sure you can be the best in the world if you are given the right opportunity to grow her talent.