The first weekend in May has become a favourite date on the Namibian Chess Calendar. For some 14 years in a row, Windhoek Optics has sponsored the prestigious Namibian Open Chess Tournament.

Like in previous years, 2004 had some exciting matches and surprising results in store. But overall the tournament was a good preparation of Namibian players in the Olympic team. A guest from Great Briton, Kevin Ellis, sacrificed part of his holiday to take part - and he earned a handsome prize money for his third place. Best learner was Willie Silver from Otjiwarongo, and the player who improved his rating most successfully, was Reuben Beukes.

The president of the Namibia Chess Federation, G. Horsthemke, thanked the Namibia Breweries for making the venue available; as is already tradition, the VIP Hall at the Show Grounds is still a favourite with the players. The main sponsor, Franz Mehl of Windhoek Optics, was present and shared some champagne with the players who all received a lunch on Tueaday after finishing 14 gruelling rounds. Once again, Tournament Director Helmuth Leicher, himself a keen player, would certainly have preferred to play himself. As it turned out, he did a sterling job organising this successful tournament. Here are the results of the top players:

1. Charles Eichab 184 points

2. Otto Leicher 176 points

3. Kevin Ellis and Reuben Beukes 168 points each

5. Rashwan Saad 156

6. Werner Tjipueja 152 points

7. Thomas Erich 140 points