IM Michael Concio Jr wins Philippine National Junior Chess Championship 2024

IM Michael Concio Jr wins Philippine National Junior Chess Championship 2024

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Coach Gerald Ferriol

12/16/20242 min read

IM Michael Concio Jr wins Philippine National Junior Chess Championship 2024

The Philippine National Junior Chess Championship concluded with an exhilarating finish as Gabriel Paradero, who had a half-point lead (6 pts), faced off against IM Michael Concio Jr (5.5 pts) in the final round. Concio's victory in this crucial match not only secured him the championship title but also showcased his exceptional skills under pressure. This dramatic turnaround highlights the competitive nature of the tournament and solidifies Concio's status as a rising star in Philippine chess.

Throughout the tournament, Concio's strategic vision, determination, experience and unwavering composure were evident in his gameplay, as he keep on pushing in the last round to gain title. His last 3 consecutive wins over Cyrus Vladimir Francisco, Mar Aviel Carredo and Gabriel Ryan Paradero resulted in his tournament victory with half-point lead.

In final round, Paradero played 44...d5? and leads to slight inferior position, instead of 44...Qxa3!=

His ability to capitalize on subtle nuances and exploit his opponents' positional weaknesses was a testament to his exceptional insight and analytical prowess, which ultimately set him apart as a force to be reckoned with.

In the diagram below Concio played the brilliant 46. Rxg6+!! and converted to winning position.

The pairing in the last (8th) round and final standing

The top 15 in National Juniors;

  • Champion - IM Concio Michael Jr. - P20,000

  • 2nd Place - NM Abris Cedric Kahlel - P15,000

  • 3rd Place - FM Bacojo Mark Jay - P10,000

  • 4th Place - NM Paradero Gabriel Ryan - P7,000

  • 5th Place - Francisco Cyrus Vladimir - P4,000

  • 6th Place - NM Velarde Jerish John - P3,000

  • 7th Place - FM Nouri Alekhine - P2,000

  • 8th Place - NM Casiguran Phil Martin - P2,000

  • 9th Place - Borce John Cyrus - P2,000

  • 10th Place - Garcia John Andrew - P2,000

  • 11th Place - Abeleda Ritchie James - P1,500

  • 12th Place - De Asas Aaron Francis - P1,500

  • 13th Place - Paraguya Yuri Lei - P1,500

  • 14th Place - Carredo Mar Aviel - P1,500

  • 15th Place - Rosaupan Jan Lei Kian - P1,500

The National Junior Chess Championship at PACE, Quezon City

In the climactic moments of the tournament, Concio's unwavering determination and unyielding spirit came to the fore, as he faced the last round solo leader Gabriel Ryan Paradero with exciting attacking battle with coach analysis (see the game below).

#michaelconcio #nationaljunior #michaelconcionationaljunior 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