Ssegwanyi just wants to enjoy World Cup experience

Turkish Airlines’ Erbil Akgun (L) hands over a ticket to Ssegwanyi who was flanked by UCF’s Chris Turyahabwe. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA

KAMPALA. International Master (IM) Arthur Ssegwanyi maintains he will be out to enjoy his experience at the Fide World Chess Cup. He becomes the first Ugandan to take part in the event, which starts in Baku, Azerbaijan on September 10.
“The draw was tough but I am not under any pressure to make it,” Ssegwanyi said of the draw that pitted him against fourth ranked Dutchman Anish Giri. “I have my expectations but that does not mean I will not try to enjoy the moment,” he added about the draw that will see him play two games against Giri to proceed to the round of 64.
Ssegwanyi, who qualified after winning the Zone 4.2 Africa Chess Championship held here in April, acknowledged having little chances of progressing.
“I have studied the way he plays and he usually lacks aggression. May be it is because he mostly plays against players at his level. I will make the most of my chances,” he said.
Ssegwanyi, who expects to depart for Baku on Monday, is also only one of six Africans at the tournament that will go on until October 5. He gained IM status at the zonal event, becoming only the second East African, the other being country mate, Elijah Emojong.