In a surprising turn of events, Michael Ngwai, Gamer tag Mcoasty, an amateur gamer from Mikindani Mombasa, successfully triumphed against 1,100 amateur and professional gamers at the first Betika Esports Shutdown Tournament held in Nairobi yesterday.
Mcoasty was awarded Kshs. 500,000 and two years’ worth of school fees for his first-place achievement, while Makuer Matur, Gamer tag Makuer clinched second place receiving Kshs. 350,000. Harry Thuku, Gamer tag HarryKappa, securing third place, was awarded Kshs. 200,000. Additionally, cash prizes totaling Kshs. 250,000 were distributed among the finishers from fourth to tenth place.
“This is a pleasant surprise. Unlike traditional sports, esports provide amateurs with the opportunity to showcase their innate talent, often surprising professional players. I have played with Makuer a few times online and I am happy I have finally met him outside of the internet. I strategized to observe and adapt to the techniques and game plan of my fellow gamers while maintaining a competitive pace. It’s game over once an opponent fully understands your playing style,” said Mcoasty, a third-year student at Mt. Kenya University studying BCOM.
During the tournament, Betika not only offered substantial cash incentives but also enriched the experience by providing exclusive mentorship opportunities with both local and international esports professionals. Among the esteemed mentors present at the tournament were Brian Otieno Diang’a, known as Thee Beast, who has been active in professional gaming since 2015, and Eugene Abuderby, a sports journalist and esports caster.
“For high amateur participation at the showdown tournament, we encouraged players who are unable to afford a console of their own, who must hone their skills by watching online tutorials and studying other players, hence the twist of events today. We are dedicated to advancing the esports industry by organizing top-tier competitive events and providing exceptional entertainment for gaming enthusiasts countrywide. We are at the forefront of the esports revolution,” said Eric Mwiti, Senior Brand Manager at Betika.
This year, Betika, through its CSR initiative Betika Na Community, has injected approximately Kshs.200 million in various sports initiatives. This effort aims to support community development and empower youth by fostering talent in local sports at both grassroots and mainstream levels, in addition to promoting cultural and social community activities.