THE spectators expect some fireworks, and get what they wish for -- they were treated to a slambang, mesmerizing action.
It was arguably the strongest chess blitz tourney in CDO in recent years. And all the chess stars gathered, Airforce man Allan Cantonjos shone the brightest.
After a grueling 7 rounds Swiss system format elimination that saw the likes of the favorites emerges: Jaime Frias II, Christian Arroyo, Antonio Chavez, Jhonnel Balquin, JV Cayaba, Eutemio Coquilla and Nazario Ubanan making it to the knock-out stage 2 games matchplay format.
Cantonjos, of Gingoog City, prevails edging Jaime Frias II in a quarterfinals thriller, then crushed Nazario Ubanan in the semi-finals.
In a fascinating Finals match-up against NM Rustum Tolentino, Cantonjos avoids the main line and played surprising offbeat openings and capitalized on the middlegame and subdues Tolentino 2-1.
T-shirt and cash prizes were given to the winners. Top Class B performers were Arbz Calido, Aldin Ranario and Randolph Dalauta. Veteran Mario Arroyo was the top senior and commented, "it was like a reunion of some sort to the great CDO chessers of the past and present." (Ronaldo Banaag/QGG Organizer)