Aznar, CEPCA hatch youth chess program

A barangay-based chess program for the kids is set to unfold in the Queen City of the South.

This after Cebu Sports Hall of Famer and chess patron Matias "Bombie" Aznar III has entered into an agreement with the Cebu Executives and Professional Chess Association (CEPCA) that they will work hand in hand for the development of young chess players in Cebu.

Although he is more visible in playing golf, Aznar is still concerned with chess affairs here.

Aznar pointed out that no local players have been making waves in the national and international scene and follow the footstep of GM Eugene Torre.

Although there are some potential players around, Aznar said it's best if there will be a big pool of local talents that can be honed further.

To kick-start their program, Aznar said every barangay in Cebu is encouraged to hold a tournament, which will be split into two divisions:the 14 years old and below and 15-above.

The top five players in each barangay will then compete against the best of the other barangays via the Sinulog Inter-Barangay Junior Chess Championships set from January 13 to 14 tentatively at the Elizabeth Mall Activity Center.

The top performers in the inter-barangay competition will be given chess materials including computers from the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) headed by Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay, a friend of Aznar.