A New Annual Tradition Begins: A & A Invitational Chess Tournament 2025
The A & A Invitational Chess Tournament 2025 took place on Saturday, 29 November 2025 at the Somerset West Library Hall, bringing together 50 committed players across all age groups and rating levels.
The tournament was organized by Aldrich van Wyk and Armand Etsebeth, two of Helderberg Chess Club’s dedicated coaches, who set out to create something that genuinely adds value to the local chess ecosystem. Their aim was simple:
give players more opportunities to boost their RSA GPX standings, improve their RSA ratings, and gain real competitive experience in a structured event.
The invitational format welcomed beginners, intermediates, and advanced players, with many Helderberg Chess Club members stepping up to test their skills. The atmosphere was sharp but friendly—exactly the kind of environment young and developing players need.
The long-term intention is to grow the A & A Invitational into a strong annual fixture, expanding its reach and reputation year after year. This first edition showed more than enough promise to justify that ambition.
🏆 Tournament Winners
Combined U8 & U10
🥇 Mikhael Anthonissen
🥈 Alex Akemdien
🥉 Michael Venter
🌸 Best Girl: Madalitso
Combined U12 & U14
🥇 Ben Klopper
🥈 Tyler Smith
🥉 Murray Copley
🌸 Best Girl: Alyssa Bolton
Combined U16 & U18
🥇 Tristan Jonkers
🥈 Albert van der Spuy
🥉 Bianca Hagan
🌸 Best Girl: Bianca Hagan
Open Section
🥇 Tebogo Coetzee
🥈 Shaun Temmers
🥉 Daniel Mutulizo
🌸 Best Female: Zaskia Ziegers
