SUBIC, Zambales — ASIA’S first grandmaster Eugene Torre and International Master Oliver Barbosa got off to blazing starts yesterday by beating their respective opening round opponents in the 2nd Chairman Prospero “Butch” Pichay Cup Chess Championship.
Torre defeated countryman Ben Palao in 25 moves of a London System Opening while Barbosa beat compatriot FM Paolo Bersamina after 23 moves of a Trompovsky Opening to lead the march of early winners in the nine-round, Swiss-system tournament organized by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and sponsored by SBMA head Arman Arreza.
In other results, GM Wen Yang of China nipped Surya Wahudi of Indonesia, GM Xu Jun of China beat Leodegario Ricana, Wan Yunguo of China waylaid WFM Medina Warda Aulia of Indonesia, Zeng Chongseheng of China crushed WCM Kadek Lin Dwijayanti of Indonesia, WGM Irine Kharisma Sukandar of Indonesia clobbered John Daniel Lemi, FM Novita Anjas of Indonesia outclassed Berna Mae Membrere, IM Oliver Dimakiling bested Mikee Charlene Suede, NM Emmanuel Senador routed Bathula Abhinay Reddy of Indonesia and, FM Haridas Pascua toppled Shakma Kusharga of Indonesia.
Reigning RP Junior Boys champion NM Mari Joseph Turqueza agreed to a draw with FM Randy Segarra after 22 moves of King’s Indian Defense.
A guaranteed cash prize of $30,000 is at stake in the championships which is the third and last installment of a three-leg international series sponsored by the NCFOP.
The champion will receive $6,000 and trophy while the second and third placers will pocket $4,000 and $3,000, respectively. Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth up to the 24th places.