by Marlon Bernardino
FILIPINO Grandmaster (GM) Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. (elo 2427) achieve his third-round assignment in the FIDE World Seniors 2019 Chess Championships at the Rin Grand Hotel in Bucharest, Romania.
The former University of Manila standout Antonio, who toppled Canadian Fide Master (FM) Dale R. Haessel (elo 2128) late Thursday, improved to 2.5 points in the 50-and-above category, the same output of compatriot International Master (IM) Angelo Young (elo 2288), winner over Singaporean International Master (IM) Chan Peng Kong (elo 2123).
Thus, Antonio and Young along 13 others shares 8th spots.
The 57 years old Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro native Antonio prevailed after 27 moves of Bogo-Indian defense while Young won after 31 moves of Catalan Opening game.
“It was a complicated position, but somehow I found a winning line,” said Antonio who placed 2nd in the 2017 edition of the event held in Acqui Terme, Italy.
Antonio's trip is sponsored by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines headed by its chairman/president rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) chair and CEO Andrea Domingo, Prage Management Corporation, Xavier School, Mr.Roger Py of Gibi Shoes, engineer Antonio "Tony" Carreon Balinas, San Juan City Chief of Police Col. Jaime Osit Santos and Woman International Master (WIM) Cristine Mariano-Wågman.
In the 65-and-over section, Fide Master (FM) Cesar Caturla (elo 2276) and Roland Mayer (elo 2078) of Germany fought to a draw after 61 moves of Sicilian defense, Alapin variation for their two points.
In Round 4, Antonio will face Peter Olsson (elo 2144) of Sweden, Young will GM Artashes Minasian (elo 2486) of Armenia Caturla will test the mettle with Kevin Bowmer (elo 2084) of England.-Marlon Bernardino-
Photo shows Filipino Grandmaster (GM) Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. (elo 2427) won his third-round assignment