Elzeba Mitei (L) presents the Best Ladies Category award to WFM Joyce Nyaruai during the  2026 Eldoret Open Chess Championship Grand Prix/ HANDOUT

Riding the wave of an impressive early-season run, KCB Chess team manager Isaac Babu believes his side is well placed to assert its authority in the National Chess League.

The bankers underlined their intent over the weekend with a polished display at the 2026 Eldoret Open Chess Championship Grand Prix held at St Luke’s Conference Hall in Uasin Gishu County.

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KCB claimed the Best Corporate Club accolade after racking up an imposing 36 points, finishing comfortably ahead of Equity Chess Club, which placed second with five points from six rounds of play. Speaking after the tournament, Babu cut a satisfied figure as he reflected on the team’s performance.

“This win was a collective effort from the team, with mixed results across individual games. I’m happy we have defended this title, and we hope to be in even better shape heading into the league,” said Babu.

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In the women’s category, Woman FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai was in ruthless form, winning all six of her games to clinch the title. Nyaruai finished ahead of Woman Candidate Master Elizabeth Cassidy, who returned five points to finish second place.

Cassidy, just 14, had arrived in Eldoret as the defending champion. Fresh from her triumph, Nyaruai said the demanding competition brought out the best in both seasoned players and rising stars.

“Eldoret really tested our limits, but it is encouraging to see top players and emerging talents rising to the challenge. I’m happy with the win, and our focus now shifts to the next competition,” she said.

Cassidy, gracious in defeat, admitted the tournament had pushed her to the edge. “It was tough. I played six games, lost one against Nyaruai, drew one and won the rest,” she said, adding that she plans to take a brief break. “I will take some time to rest and come back stronger.”

The Open Section provided its own drama, with six players locked between third and eighth place in a tightly contested leaderboard. KCB’s Brian Irungu finished second overall after posting an impressive five points from six outings, while Ugandan ace Abdul Shakur of Victoria Chess Club claimed the title and walked away with the winner’s cheque of Sh40,000.