Jan Carlsen Matencio wins the 1st BCA U16 Chess Tournament 2025
The GMG Chess Club hosted its inaugural BCA U16 Chess Tournament, a notable event in the club’s calendar. Despite an unexpected number of participants, with nine young chess enthusiasts vying for supremacy, the tournament proceeded smoothly, maintaining a spirit of competitive camaraderie.
The competition was structured over five rounds of rapid chess, providing a dynamic and intense environment. Each match was a battle of wits, demanding quick thinking and strategic prowess from the players. The tournament was a showcase of young talent, each player exhibiting extraordinary potential and determination.
Rising above the rest, Jan Carlsen Matencio, emerged victorious in the said event last April 20, 2025, at GMG Chess Club Binan, he displayed outstanding skills and emerged victorious. His journey through the rounds was marked by relentless focus and strategic brilliance with 4/5 points, a half-point lead.
His victory was characterized by an unblemished record with four veterans players, winning against Jeffrey Louise Magalang, Jericho Marticio and Jedi Macael Pitoon and lost to Rotshen Hernando.
The tournament was more than just a competition, as it fostered sportsmanship, friendship, and a deepening love for chess among participants. It also underscored the club's commitment to nurturing the talents of young players, providing them with a platform to showcase and hone their skills.
With plans already underway for next year's tournament, GMG Chess Club looks forward to continuing its tradition of promoting the game and inspiring young minds to achieve excellence on and off the chessboard.
The rival and top contenders in the GMG Chess Club, Jeffrey Louise Magalang (yellow) against Karl Jerson Blando (gray).
One of the talented players in the club, Jhon Paulo Ferriol (yellow, learning chess in less than 4 months and started focusing this April 2025) shows great suprise against Jericho Marticio.
Other players, Roberto Azul Jr (cap) against Stephen Machica and Jedi Macael Pitoon (Black shirt) against Rotshen Hernando (a sole-lead in the penultimate round, lost in the final round against Marticio and placed third).
The result of round five (5).
The Final Standing after five (5) rounds.
Tournament link: https://chess-results.com/tnr1159928.aspx?lan=1&art=4&fed=PHI
The 1st BCA U16 Chess Tournament 2025 will undoubtedly remember this edition for Medina’s remarkable mastery, as he continues to inspire both seasoned players and budding chess enthusiasts within the community.
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.
Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.
by Coach Gerald Ferriol