by Kristel Satumbaga
Expect tough competition when the first Tempo Inter-Schools Rapid Chess Championships fires off July 20 at the Manila Prince Hotel.
Organizers expect teams from the UAAP, NCAA, Milo Checkmate Chess Clinic and Sports Academy to take part in the one-day event supported by the Philippine Basketball Association, SM Supermalls, Internatioonal Container Terminal Services Inc., Mighty Sports Apparel and Accessories and 1-Pacman Party-List.
“We believe na dito nade-develop ang mga players – from the schools,” said tournament director and Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales.
“I’m happy that Tempo and Manila Bulletin are putting this project to support and put awareness in the sport,” said Asia’s First Grandmaster Eugene Torre.
Also present during the media launch were Tempo Editor Rey Bancod and Manila Prince Hotel Operations Manager Tyne Dignadice.
A total cash prize of P100,000 is at stake in the FIDE-rated tournament divided into six categories: Open College, Women’s College, Open High School, Women’s High School, Open Elementary and Girl’s Elementary.
The team champion will be determined by adding the scores of the school’s top performer of each category, a format that will be used for the first time.
Among the schools which expressed interest in participating are Mapua, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Adamson, University of the Philippines, Far Eastern University, University of the East, and University of Perpetual Help.
