Grandmaster Timur Gareyev wins Uganda Open as Asaba shines
Gareyev, an American chess player originally from Kazakhstan, became the first grandmaster to compete in the Uganda Open and took home the top cash prize of sh1 million.
American based chess grand master Gereyev Timur (left) taking on a South Sudanese competitor. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
Silvano Kibuuka
Journalist @New Vision
Chess Grandmaster Timur Gareyev lived up to expectations by winning the 2025 Uganda Open Chess Championship, scoring 7.5 points in the classical 8-round event held at Nob View Hotel.
Gareyev, an American chess player originally from Kazakhstan, became the first grandmaster to compete in the Uganda Open and took home the top cash prize of sh1 million.
He praised the high standard of play in Uganda and promised to continue mentoring local players through an online arrangement.
However, it was 12-year-old Juliet Asaba who captured headlines as she claimed the 2025 Ladies Open title in stunning fashion.
Asaba, a primary school pupil at Sister Miriam Duggan P.S in Kamwokya, entered the open category for the first time and defied the odds to emerge champion. With a FIDE rating of 1726, the young star plays for the KTLC Club in Kamwokya, which also produced U-18 girls’ champion Mackline Nakatudde.
“I’m happy for the win. I’ve played chess for two years, but getting eyeglasses this year improved my vision and helped me play better,” said Asaba, who earned UGX 650,000. “Earlier this month, I finished unbeaten in the team events at the Fr. Grimes Schools Championships.”
Gareyev singled out junior player Edwin Pido for praise — the only player to force a draw against him during the tournament. “I thank Pido and all the young players. They should go beyond talent by doing more research and consistent training,” said the grandmaster.
Pido, a student at St. Mary’s College Kisubi, expressed pride in his achievement. “Drawing with a grandmaster has boosted my confidence. I now feel ready to face any high-level opponent,” said the elated youngster, who also finished unbeaten in the schools’ championship.
Notably absent from this year’s event were defending champions IM Arthur Ssegwanyi and Patricia Kawuma in the men's and women’s categories, respectively.
The tournament served as a selection platform for the upcoming African Individual Chess Championships, scheduled for May 22–29 in Mombasa. Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) President Emmanuel Mwaka confirmed that 25 players were selected to represent the country.
The 2025 Uganda Open featured participants from Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Burundi, and the United States. Winners in the open category received medals and cash prizes.