By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda Christian University chess team remained unbeaten after two rounds at the ongoing AUUS Games, settling for back-to-back draws as competition intensified at the UCU campus.
The 20th AUUS Games UCU 2025 Chess Championship, played under a Swiss-system team format, brought together 12 universities from across the country. After two rounds, UCU sits eighth on the standings with two match points, having drawn both of their opening encounters.
Kampala International University set the early pace in the tournament, winning both of their matches to top the table with six points. Kampala University and Mbarara University followed closely, each recording one win and one draw to remain in strong contention.
UCU’s draws earned them four game points, keeping them within reach of the leading pack as the seven-round tournament continues. Officials noted that early rounds often test consistency rather than outright dominance, especially in a tightly contested field.
Other institutions posting solid starts included Gulu University and Kyambogo University, while Makerere University and Makerere University Business School each registered one win and one loss after two rounds.
The championship, which runs from December 19 to 22, features a standard time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment per move. Matches are officiated by a team led by Chief Arbiter FA Nakirya Victoria, with IA Kimera Innocent serving as Deputy Chief Arbiter.
With five rounds still to play, UCU remains mathematically in the title race. The team will aim to convert their steady openings into wins as the tournament progresses, especially on home ground where support remains strong.
