By Pigeon Lobien

 

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Former University of Baguio High School chess standout Brylle Gever Vinluan made 6.5 of 8 points to rule the 5th Manuel Verzola Caba Chess Tournament in Caba, La Union last December 27 to complete a troika of chess tourneys for Teddy Sarmiento during the Christmas week.

Vinluan, who went to the National University and took part in the Bulldogs chess squad’s campaign in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines finished sole first half a point of three others to rule the event that offered PhP10,000 to the winner.

A week earlier, the San Fabian, Pangasinan born Vinluan visited his old chess base in the Baguio Center Mall where he finished 10th place despite the top seed.

Three players occupied second to fourth places with six points a-piece, but Brix Ceasar Cafuir took the top spot with his 31-tie break point.

Finishing third was Fernan Quiban with 29 tie break point just half a point ahead of best female finisher Brena Mae Membrere.

Cuifar and Quiban when home PhP3,000 and PhP2,000 the richer after their second and third place finishes.

After a hectic Christmas schedule, Sarmiento is looking forward to hosting the 14th Gopalarong Ahedres Rapid Chess Tournament at the Baguio Center Mall on January 3.

The three-division tournament that offers more than PhP16,000 in cash prizes has an ope division as well as 12 under and 16 under divisions.

The open champion walks home with PhP3,500. On January 17, the Baguio Pines City Chess Club which Sarmiento is president will officiate the 30th Rapid Chess Tournament of the Knights and Minds Association, Inc.

The National Chess Federation of the Philippines sanctioned event will be played at the BCM Events Center where NCFP members will earn rating points.

The event is open to NCFP members and new members can play after paying the membership fee of PhP650, the BPCCC announced.