The bankers have left no room for doubt in Uasin Gishu, sweeping the board with a tactical masterclass that cements their national dominance. KCB Chess Team has stormed the 2026 Eldoret Open, claiming the top honors and sending a chilling warning to their rivals across the league.

In a tournament that tested the mental fortitude of Kenya’s finest, KCB emerged as the undisputed kings and queens of the 64 squares. The team racked up an imposing 36 points, obliterating the field and leaving their closest challengers, Equity Chess Club, trailing in the dust with a mere five points. The victory at St. Luke’s Conference Hall was not just a win; it was a statement of intent.

Nyaruai's Ruthless Streak

At the heart of this conquest was Woman FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai. Playing with the precision of a grandmaster and the hunger of a rookie, Nyaruai was unstoppable. She won all six of her matches, a perfect score that saw her dismantle every opponent who dared to sit across from her. Her victory over 14-year-old prodigy and defending champion Elizabeth Cassidy was the highlight of the weekend—a passing of the torch, or perhaps, a reminder of who still holds it.

• The Perfect Run: Joyce Nyaruai secured 6 out of 6 wins, a flawless performance that anchored the team's success.
• Corporate Giants: KCB took the Best Corporate Club title, showcasing the depth of their roster.
• The Future Stars: Despite the loss, young talents like Elizabeth Cassidy proved that the future of Kenyan chess is bright, pushing the veterans to their limits.

Domination by Design

Team Manager Isaac Babu could barely hide his delight. "This win was a collective effort," he noted, praising the squad's resilience.The addition of new signings like Gong Thong and Jadon Simiyu has added a layer of steel to the bankers' armor. As the team returns to Nairobi, the trophy cabinet is heavier, and their confidence is sky-high.

"Eldoret tested our limits, but we answered the call," Nyaruai said, her eyes already set on the next challenge. For the rest of the league, the message from the Rift Valley is clear: The bankers are open for business, and they are playing for keeps.