Christian Arroyo won the 1st Coach Alex Almarez Rapid Tournament 2024
The 1st Coach Alex Almarez Rapid Tournament finished with surprising result. Christian secured the title with 6.5/7 points,
Throughout the tournament, Christian' speed, tactical skill, experience, and unwavering composure were evident in his gameplay as he played undefeated throughout the tournament. He received the cash prize of P5,000 + trophy. Richie Jocson secured the 2nd spot with 6/7 points and received the P3,000 and medal. While Apollo Agapay secured the 3rd spot with 5.5/7 points having superior tiebreak among 4th placer Gary Legaspi and 5th placer Janmyl Dilan Tisado. They received P2,000, P1,000 and P800 plus certificate each respectively.
Continuing up to top 10;
6th place: Leonel Escote with P500 cash prize + medal
7th place: WNM Kaye Lalaine Regidor with P500 cash prize + medal
8th place: Jersey Marticio with P500 cash prize + medal
9th place: WNM Daren Dela Cruz with P500 cash prize + medal
10th place: Tristan Frech Ibaoc with P500 cash prize + medal
Christian Arroyo (with green jacket), Gary Legaspi (next to Christian, with hoodie shirt), Richie Jocson (Gary's opponent) and Apollo Agapay (with red cap) were pondering their next move. There were games of positivity, of missed opportunities and of miscalculations, but each setback only fueled player’s determination to do better in the next game.
As the rounds went by, we found something in every chess player joined, some are strong in the opening, middlegame, strategy and endgame. Some are showing endurance, physical and mental fortitude. Some are playing seriously and some are playing for fun, but through it all, there was a camaraderie among them, a shared love for the game that transcended language and culture.
In the end, the tournament was decided with the real winner that shown his skill and experience. Remember, after the tournament, all of us are winner, some got the rewards, some learnt
valuable lessons and experiences.
The Final Standing after 7 rounds.
Coach Alex Matthew Almarez, the tournament Director
Chess has always been more than just a game to us; it is a journey of self-discovery, a test of character, and a source of endless fascination and joy.
See you in our next tournament, "The 1st GMG Chess Non-Master Cup 2025, on January 25, 2025 at Checkpoint Mall, Calamba.
Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.
by Coach Gerald Ferriol