Evasan Chettiar and Bonolo Ntsielo Shine at 2025 BMI Lesotho Open Chess Championships
The 2025 BMI Lesotho Open Chess Championships concluded on Sunday after an intense three-day competition, with South African resident Evasan Chettiar emerging as the champion in the Prestige category. In the Ladies section, Lesotho’s own Bonolo Ntsielo claimed the championship title, bringing pride to her home country.
A Prestigious Event
Hosted at the Blue Mountain Inn Hotel (BMI), the tournament was sponsored by BMI, which contributed over M20,000 in prize money. The competition was divided into four sections: Prestige, Open, Ladies, and Development, accommodating players of various skill levels.
This year’s edition attracted 133 participants from three countries—Lesotho, South Africa, and Eswatini—making it one of the most diverse and competitive chess tournaments in the region.
Winners in Focus
- Prestige Category: Evasan Chettiar dominated the top-tier Prestige section, showcasing exceptional skill and strategy to secure victory. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the strongest chess players in the region.
- Ladies Section: Lesotho’s Bonolo Ntsielo delivered a stellar performance, claiming the top spot in the Ladies category. Her triumph underscores the growing prominence of female players in chess across Lesotho.
Other sections, including the Open and Development categories, saw fierce competition from both seasoned players and emerging talents, further highlighting the event’s role in fostering chess development in the region.
A Platform for Growth
The BMI Lesotho Open Chess Championships have become a cornerstone for chess in Southern Africa, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent and gain valuable experience. The inclusion of the Development section reflects a strong commitment to nurturing young and upcoming players, ensuring the sport’s continued growth in the region.
Organizers hailed the 2025 edition as a resounding success and expressed gratitude to BMI for its generous sponsorship. The tournament not only strengthens the chess community in Lesotho but also fosters regional cooperation through the shared love of the game.
With its increasing popularity and high level of competition, the BMI Lesotho Open Chess Championships are poised to become an even more significant event on the Southern African chess calendar in the years to come.
