Classic show for Cebu's Guinness bid

CEBU, Philippines - A grand and festive show dazzled the large throng of spectators during the final phase of Cebu's historic attempt to break the Guinness record for the “World’s Largest Chess Tournament” in Board Game category yesterday at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Indeed, it was one-of-a-kind ceremonial opening move which dazzled everyone present as members of Dancesport-Team Cebu City performed a fantastic production number wherein they danced unique chess movements, with the 32 dancers representing chess pieces in a giant chess board.

Cheers and yells were heard from the crowd when the dancers creatively demonstrated the four moves to checkmate through dancing.

A total of 3,000 players were spread at the CCSC grandstand and played in fulfillment of City Sports Commission’s (CCSC) ambitious project.

CCSC, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), hopes to again make history and put the Queen City of the South in the world map through this new record-breaking goal.

The record is currently held by Russia when 1, 214 participants took part in an event organized by Eugenie Kuznitsov on June 2, 2007 at the Central City Park in Krasnoyarsk.

Although no representative from Guinness was present during the affair, CCSC chairman Edward Hayco said they will strictly monitor all the games and make sure that the event will be properly documented so that their attempt won't be declared null and void. 

Hayco stressed though that the main objective of this undertaking is the application of its grassroots program and promote the sport to the youth.

For his part, chess patron and sports commissioner Boogie Lim was very delighted upon seeing the young kids gather and be part of the memorable event.

“I’m really overwhelmed by the massive participation of these young chess enthusiasts. This is, indeed, a very great move for Cebu. Chess should be part in the school curriculum because it sharpens the students’ analytic minds,” said Lim.

Five-year old Harvey Durano, Jr. from Lapu-Lapu City was the youngest player who competed in the opening matches yesterday.

“I'm happy that I was able to participate in this historic event at a young age. I will never stop playing chess until I will grow old,” said Durano.

Three rounds were being contested yesterday, while the remaining four will be played today. Afterwhich, the grand champion will be crowned. (FREEMAN)