Club Effort, Podium Results – Helderberg at Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope tournament, hosted by the Cape Town Chess Federation from 31 January to 1 February 2026, was a major weekend on the Western Cape chess calendar — and Helderberg Chess Club was proud to play a significant role behind the scenes.
From early-morning setup to assisting with logistics and ensuring rounds ran smoothly, our club members were deeply involved in helping deliver a successful event at Altena Primary School in Strand. Large tournaments don’t run themselves — and it was great to see our community step up.
We are especially proud of Aldrich van Wyk, Helderberg EXCO member and respected local coach, on his re-election as Youth Director. His continued leadership reflects both his commitment to youth development and the active role Helderberg Chess Club plays in strengthening chess across the region.
Just as importantly, Helderberg was well represented over the board.
🏆 Helderberg Podium Finishers
🥈 Sven Karl Martz – 2nd Place (Championship Section) – 4½/6
A strong and consistent performance in the top section against elite opposition.
🥉 Phillip Maytham – 3rd Place (Intermediate Section) – 5/6
An excellent score in a tightly contested section.
🥉 Rujeko Pfukwa – 3rd Place (Under 12)
A well-earned podium finish in a competitive age group.
🥈 Evan de Wet – 2nd Place (Under 10) – 5/6
A confident tournament with impressive technical play.
Seeing Helderberg players competing across Championship, Intermediate and Junior sections highlights the strength and depth of our club. From experienced competitors to rising young talents, the pipeline is active and growing.
We also commend all our members who competed hard, supported one another, and represented the club with professionalism and sportsmanship.
Congratulations to the organisers, arbiters and volunteers who made the tournament possible — and well done to every Helderberg player who stepped up to the board.
We build stronger players by being present — both in the playing hall and behind the scenes. The Cape of Good Hope Tournament showed exactly that.
