Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa – The South African Junior Closed Chess Championship 2025 (SAJCCC 2025), one of the most prestigious events on the national chess calendar, will take place from 31 March to 5 April 2025 at Hottentots Holland High School in Somerset West, Western Cape. Organized by Western Cape Chess under the auspices of Chess South Africa, this chess tournament will bring together 720 of the country’s top junior players from Under 8 to Under 20 from different backgrounds, competing in both open and female sections.
The SAJCCC 2025 serves as a qualifying event for junior players to represent South Africa in international tournaments like the World Youth, African Youth, and more. Every participant has earned their spot through a rigorous selection process that includes Grand Prix rankings, ratings, and a qualifying tournament. Over nine rounds of classical chess, these young chess talents will showcase their skills and determination in pursuit of national glory during the six days of intense competition.
Adding to the prestige of the event, various dignitaries will attend both the opening and closing ceremonies. His presence highlights the growing importance of chess as a tool for developing critical thinking, discipline, and strategic planning skills among South Africa’s youth.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Individual and corporate sponsorships for the South African Junior Closed Chess Championship will help cover tournament entry fees for underprivileged players who would otherwise be unable to participate. Sponsorship contributions will also go toward subsidizing Chess SA subscriptions, ensuring that talented young players from disadvantaged backgrounds have the opportunity to grow and compete at the highest level.
By supporting this initiative, sponsors will play a vital role in developing the next generation of chess champions and contributing to the revitalization of Chess South Africa. This partnership fosters a more inclusive and thriving chess community, where all players have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Spotlight on Rising Stars
Among the many talented players set to compete are some of South Africa’s most promising junior stars:
- Raynier Claassen (Western Cape) – Current Under 14 Open African Champion.
- Helen Rautenbach (Gauteng) – Reigning Under 14 Girls South African and African Champion.
- Amahle Zenzile (Western Cape) – Current under 16 Girls South African Champion.
- Imkhitha Joya (Western Cape) – A rising star in the Under 14 Girls category, known for her incredible talent and determination. Both Imkhitha and Amahle were invited to represent
- South Africa at the 2024 World Youth Chess Championship, but financial challenges prevented their participation.
- Caleb Levitan – The number one ranked player, who at just 15 years old, will also be taking part in the competition.
- Chisomo Bashoma – The recently crowned Woman FIDE Master, who will also be competing, adding further excitement to the event.
Excitement and Anticipation
Aldo Pekeur, President of Chess South Africa, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming championship:
“The South African Junior Closed Chess Championship is a cornerstone of our efforts to develop the next generation of chess champions. We are thrilled to host this event in Somerset West and look forward to witnessing the incredible talent and determination of our junior players.”
Contact Information
For media inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Aldo Pekeur
President, Chess South Africa
Phone: 074 520 4475
Email: president@wc-chess-assoc.co.za
Join us as we celebrate the future of South African chess and cheer on the nation’s top junior players as they vie for glory and the chance to represent their country on the international stage.
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Author: Zane Groenewald from Porky’s People on behalf of SAJCCC.
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