RUEL Nuttal ruled the final qualifying tournament of the Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (Cepca) on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, at the Barracks Chess Club in Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

The former chess varsity player from Samar State University in Catbalogan went undefeated in five rounds for a total of 5.0 points, earning him the monthly crown that comes with a slot to the Cepca Grand Finals and a P2,000 cash prize.

The 37-year-old Nuttal, who works as a salesman, defeated Arji Villarin in the opening round and won over Jervy Villarin in the next round. He outlasted Rogelio Enriquez Jr. in the third round before beating Amado Olea Jr. and Marian Calimbo in the fourth and fifth rounds.

Architect Filemon Kapuno III and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) officer Richard Quano finished in second and third places with identical 4.0 points.

Kapuno and Quano also earned tickets to the Cepca Grand Final as the top three in the final qualifying tournament will represent the months of October, November and December.

Joining them in the annual championship are Vince dela Torre (January), Amado Olea (February), Enriquez (March), Rey Flores (April), Rosendo Yamyamin (May), Venancio Loyola Jr. (June), Jun Pasion (July), Ruel Hortelano (August) and Edwin Cablao (September). (RSC)