In the beautiful city of Lusaka, the Lusaka Province Chess Association (LPCA) is abuzz with excitement as they proudly present the Mdina Lusaka Open 2023 Chess Championship - a prestigious FIDE-rated tournament that every chess enthusiast has eagerly been waiting for. The championship takes place from the 5th to the 7th of August at the esteemed NIPA Library and Conference Centre, a perfect venue for such an event. Players from all over the region are expected to participate in three thrilling sections: the Open, Women, and Developmental (Under 16 years). With nine intense rounds to be played, players are in for a challenge that tests their skills and strategic thinking. The time control is set at 60 minutes with an additional 30-second increment from move one, leaving no room for complacency. FA Mary Mashane, FA Victor Chimbamu from Zimbabwe, and NA Moses Kalapizya are the chosen arbiters, ensuring fair play and adherence to the rules. The organizers have kept the participation fees reasonable: Zambian players pay K150, while those under 16 years of age and people with disabilities pay K100. Foreign players, too, have a chance to compete by paying a fee of K300. As the championship draws near, players, both experienced and new, are gearing up to showcase their skills. The tournament has three sections, each with its own set of prizes. In the Open section, the top performer will not only win the title but also take home K10,000 along with a coveted trophy and medal. The second and third-place winners will be awarded K7,000 and K5,000 respectively. A total of nine players have a chance to win various cash prizes and medals, adding to the competitive spirit. In the Ladies' section, six talented women will battle it out for the top spot. The winner will claim K6,000, along with a trophy and medal, while the second and third-place winners will receive K4,500 and K3,000 respectively. The remaining participants have their eyes set on winning cash prizes and medals. The Developmental section caters to young talent, the future of chess. Boys and girls under 16 years of age compete fiercely for the top three positions. The winners in both categories will be awarded K700 and medals, while the second and third-place winners will receive K400 and K200 respectively. With registration now open, players are rushing to secure their spots in the championship. They have until Friday, 4th August 2023, at 23:59 hrs to complete their registration. Late registrations will incur a penalty fee, so everyone is keen on meeting the deadline. To ensure fair play, players are reminded that only those who make the payment within the specified time frame will be considered officially registered. The prize money will be distributed equally among players in tied positions, adhering to the latest FIDE laws of chess. The LPCA encourages players who haven't paid their CFZ membership fee to do so before registering for the tournament. This is an essential requirement for participants, and the association wants to ensure that everyone has a chance to play. As excitement builds up, the chess community eagerly looks forward to the Mdina Lusaka Open 2023 Chess Championship. The generous sponsorship by Mr. Tiwone Mdina makes this event possible, and the players are ready to give their best to make it a memorable tournament. In the heart of Lusaka, minds are sharpened, strategies are devised, and friendships are forged, all in the spirit of the beautiful game of chess.