Pason leads winners in Cebu age-group chess

CEBU, Philippines - Allan Pason added another collection to his trophy case after clinching the 16-under title of the 1st Cebu Age- Group Challenge chess tournament yesterday at the dance studio of Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC)

Pason completed the five-round Swiss system competition with 4.5 points. Keithclaire Carlisle Morala bagged the women's crown with 5.5 points.

“The win was overwhelming for me because I did not prepare much for this tournament. I am now excited for the national eliminations next month. Hopefully, I can get a slot to the nationals,” said Pason, who took pride for claiming the inaugural championship of the Cebu Chess Festival two months ago.

Rhenzi Kyle Sevillano and Laila Camel Nadera, on the other hand, topped the 14-under category, while Junry Romero and Carmel Socorro Loquez lorded it over in the 20-under division.

Completing the list of the winners were Vladimir James Robillos and Regina Catherine Quinanola (8-under), Jeremy Pepito and Glesit Marie Tatoy (10-under) and James Fernando Diloy and Cherry Mae Caballes (12-under).

They will compete next in the National Age-Group qualifying event set from April 7 to 14 in Aklan. Their trip will be shouldered by the Cebu City Sports Commission. - THE FREEMAN