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.

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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]