BASEY, Philippines – The Open Rapid Chess Tournament at Basey National High School (BNHS) kicked off today with over 60 chess enthusiasts competing, drawing young and seasoned players from across the region.
“Let the strategy begin,” declared Tournament Director Leo Morante as the event officially commenced around 9 AM on September 22, 2024.
Organized by the Basey Chess Club, in cooperation with Mayor Luz Chu Ponferrada, Sangguniang Bayan officials, and other donors, the tournament aims to foster strategic thinking and sportsmanship. It promises to showcase a high level of competition with two categories: the Young Category (14 years old and below) and the Adult Category (15 years old and above).
Winners in the Adult Category will receive P5,000 for first place, P3,000 for second, and P2,000 for third, along with trophies and certificates. Fourth and fifth placers will receive P1,000 and P500, respectively, plus certificates. In the Young Category, first, second, and third place winners will take home P3,000, P2,000, and P1,000, respectively, along with trophies and certificates, while the fourth and fifth will each receive P500 and certificates.
Special awards will also be given in both categories for the “Top Senior,” “Top Lady,” “Top Girl,” and “Under-14” participants, each receiving P500 and a certificate.
Basey Chess Club Arbiter Christopher Llegado noted the range of talent present, saying, “We have a mix of seasoned players with regional and national tournament experience going up against young and up-and-coming talents. It’s exciting to see the different levels of skill come together.”
Some participants arrived with full support from family and friends, while others, particularly the rookies, competed with minimal backing, showcasing the diverse dynamics of this growing chess community.
As the tournament progresses, intense matches and impressive performances have already caught the attention of spectators, promising an exciting event for chess lovers.
| Reports and photos by Ricky Bautista, The Samar Chronicle
