GM Darwin Laylo wins Koko Pimentel Marikina Christmas Blitz Chess Festival 2024

GM Darwin Laylo wins Koko Pimentel Marikina Christmas Blitz Chess Festival 2024

OTHER CHESS TOURNAMENTS

NM Gerald Ferriol

12/29/20242 min read

GM Darwin Laylo wins Koko Pimentel Marikina Christmas Blitz Chess Festival 2024

Grandmaster Darwin Laylo emerged victorious at the Koko Pimentel Marikina Christmas Blitz Chess Festival 2024, held on last December 28-29, 2024 at Ayala Mall Felis, Marikina, with an impressive score of 8/9. Laylo demonstrated immense skill and strategic prowess throughout the event, consistently outperforming his competitors.

GM Darwin Laylo on the move

Despite his near-perfect performance, GM Laylo faced a setback in the final round, where he lost to Tristan Jared Cervero. This unexpected twist, however, did not diminish his overall achievement, as he still finished one point ahead of the 2nd placed Noel Geronimo. Laylo's early rounds were marked by decisive victories, earning him a solid lead making it a virtual champion after 8 round.

From left to right: Willy San Juan, 3rd placed: Jan Roldan Oriendo, Champion GM Darwin Laylo, 2nd placed: Noel Geronimo, IA Patrick Lee and IA Ricky Navalta

The Opening ceremony with Senator Koko Pimentel and Grandmaster Darwin Laylo including the aspiring chess players.

The tournament atmosphere was charged with excitement and competitive spirit, drawing participants and spectators from Marikina City. Laylo's matches were a highlight, showcasing his tactical depth and quick decision-making abilities, which are essential in blitz chess.

The results after round 9

The top 10;

  • Champion: GM Darwin Laylo - P6,000 + trophy

  • 2nd Place: Noel Geronimo - P3,000 + trophy

  • 3rd Place: Jan Roldan Oriendo - P2,500 + trophy

  • 4th Place: Tristan Jared Cervero - P2,000 + medal

  • 5th Place: Mark Kenneth Lomio - P2,000 + medal

  • 6th Place: Kyz Llantada - P2,000 + medal

  • 7th Place: Carlo Caranyagan - P2,000 + medal

  • 8th Place: Joven Balsalubre - P2,000 + medal

  • 9th Place: John Marcus Lomio - P2,000 + medal

This victory at the Marikina Blitz Chess Tournament is a testament to GM Laylo's continued excellence in the chess community, further solidifying his reputation as one of the leading chess players in the country. As the tournament concluded, applause and accolades were directed at GM Laylo, celebrating not just his victory but also his enduring contribution to the sport.

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