Mamello Rakotsoane
Chess rising star, Naleli McPherson Teeke, clinched the coveted second prize in the intermediate category of the ladies in the recent Bojanala Closed Chess Championship 2026, in North West, South Africa.
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, 28-year old McPerson Teeke from Mohale’s Hoek has bagged M5, 000 and cemented her place as a rising star in Lesotho’s chess scene.
Her journey from a high school beginner to a national contender is a story of passion, perseverance, and quiet strength, offering inspiration to aspiring players across the region.
McPerson Teeke first discovered chess during her high school years, drawn in by her Mathematics teacher and the influence of her chess-playing friends.
“I was always around them when they play,” she said.
One of her fondest early memories is qualifying for the World Youth Chess Championship Olympiad in Durban, South Africa just a month after starting.
“I did well and even qualify for a prestigious tournament.”
Though she did not undergo extensive preparation for the Bojanala event, her coaching work keeps her fundamentals sharp. She also draws insights from watching her husband, a higher-rated player, play. Entering the tournament as the top seed in her section, she faced intense pressure, as opponents targeted her.
“When you are the favorite, everyone comes for you.”
Her strategy was simple play for enjoyment rather than victory, especially after a disappointing performance at the Lesotho Open the previous week.
“This was my second tournament this year, and the plan was to enjoy myself and see what happens.”
The Bojanala Chess Federation’s annual closed tournament fosters a supportive atmosphere, with a prize pool rewarding excellence, M10,000 for first winner, M5,000 for second, M,500 for third, and an additional M2,500 for the best female player. The event aims to give back to the chess community and honor players’ dedication.
She competed in five rounds, drawing three and winning two, against formidable South African opponents, including junior masters.
“All my games were difficult; I was playing against quite large players in South Africa, some young but with strong game plans. Everyone was coming for me, so I had to not feel under pressure.”
Despite lacking full preparation, she pushed through, with her final draw securing second place.
“Winning the price felt great, especially as it was my first tournament with a dedicated ladies’ section but I thought I might not get anything because people prepare more for the highest-rated player, and the money was an extra helping hand.”
Naleli awaits Lesotho’s national team selections for the Chess Olympiad.
“If I get selected, I will definitely give it a chance to represent our country.”
This year, she plans to compete in as many tournaments as possible, though it may be her last before a break to focus on her professional career.
“During my time when I have been playing and trying to fight that us female we should get considered and be treated the same way men are treated in sports, I have noticed that something that we really cannot change or we can try by all means to change it but it is taking a longer period of time.
“What I can say to females is that try to be playing as much as you can and don not give up even if you feel like the favour is not on your side as female just continue playing because you never know what future holds,” she said.
Summary
- “Winning the price felt great, especially as it was my first tournament with a dedicated ladies’ section but I thought I might not get anything because people prepare more for the highest-rated player, and the money was an extra helping hand.
- “During my time when I have been playing and trying to fight that us female we should get considered and be treated the same way men are treated in sports, I have noticed that something that we really cannot change or we can try by all means to change it but it is taking a longer period of time.
- “What I can say to females is that try to be playing as much as you can and don not give up even if you feel like the favour is not on your side as female just continue playing because you never know what future holds,” she said.
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