Quizon takes down German super GM

BUDAPEST— Daniel Quizon softened the impact of the Philippines crushing 3-1 loss to mighty Germany by stunning super Grandmaster Dimitrij Kollers on top board in the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad Thursday night.

Quizon was on the receiving end of his rival’s relentless onslaught only to weather it and turn it around in the end in escaping with 54-move victory of a Sicilian encounter.

The 20-year-old International Master’s win proved to be the lone bright spot for Team Philippines as IM Paulo Bersamina, GM John Paul Gomez and IM Jan Emmanuel Garcia blew away drawing chances against GMs Matthias Bluebaum, Alexander Donchenko and Frederik Svane, respectively.

More importantly, the result sent Quizon’s rating rising to 2498, or just two points shy from breaching the requisite 2500-rating level for one to become a full pledge GM.

“Nag-tyaga lang po ako makahanap ng butas, hindi po ako nawalan ng loob,” said Quizon, who wore the same reversible black nylon jacket he donned when he tied for first in the GM-laden Abu Dhabi tilt early this month.

Quizon, however, would have to wait for another day before he can realize his dream as he was rested in the third round with GM Julio Catalino Sadorra taking his place on top board after arriving Thursday night.

“Rest din po, pagod po kagabi, haba ng laban. Baka mag-white (pieces) na po ako sa round four,” said Quizon.