28 Jul 2015

International Master, Providence Oatlhotse could be a multi millionaire if he wins the Millionaire Chess Tournament to be held in Las Vegas, United Sates, in October.

Oatlhotse has won a ticket to compete in the Millionaire Chess Tournament and the winner will walk away with a cheque for US$ 1 000 000 which translates into over P10 million.

Briefing the media on Monday July 27, Botswana Chess Federation treasurer, Gofaone Baleseng said there was a need to celebrate the achievements of one of the best chess players in the country.

He noted that Oatlhotse was the first Motswana to become an International Master.

Oatlhotse has played many tournaments and won several titles and tournaments both locally and regionally.

He has participated in the Tsogo Sun Millionaire Satellite Tournament in Johannesburg which gave him a ticket to play in the millionaire tournament in Las Vegas.

He qualified after beating a host of international masters and Grand Masters.

Baleseng described Oatlhotse as a prolific chess player. He noted that he beat a top Grand Master at the Olympians in Turkey, and that he also won a title in Madagascar which made him an International Master.

Baleseng hailed Oatlhotse and said the invitation demonstrates the strides that he has been making in the game of chess.

He said Oatlhotse was doing all in his power to become Botswana’s first Grand Master, adding that he deserves to be celebrated just as we celebrate the achievements of the country’s top athlete in Nijel Amos.

Baleseng emphasised that Oatlhotse was putting Botswana chess in another platform.

He noted that the country was making strides in chess because of the achievements of athletes such as Oatlhotse.

He added that Oatlhotse was  the most decorated chess player in the country who has won all the major tournaments locally.

He also described Oatlhotse as a top achiever who needs to be supported to prepare for the million dollar tournament.

For his part, Oatlhotse said he needs chess software to prepare for the tournament.

The International Master said he needs items such as software, magazines, computers and digital boards in order to prepare effectively for the tournament. ENDS