Natividad dominates Bogo Open chessfest

CEBU, Philippines - Richard Natividad prevailed in a field of 70 plus entries to rule the Mayor Celestino “Junie” E. Martinez, Jr. Open Chess Tournament the other day at the city plaza of Bogo north of Cebu.

Natividad stayed undefeated after the 7-round Swiss system tilt to post a tournament-high 6.5 points. He went home P5,000 richer.

Anthony Makinano placed second with 6.0 points, while the Ganzon siblings Rommel and Ronald were at joint third and fourth with 5.5 points apiece.

Completing the top 10 finishers were Mohmin Morsalim, Dindo Masong, Gerry Carisusa, Dennis Navales, Marc Simborio, Peterson Sia and Erwin Ababat.

Organized by Joe Muñez, Pat Toniacao and Dr. Ben Rodriguez, the event was among the sporting highlights of Bogo's annual fiesta celebration in honor ot its beloved patron San Vicente Ferrer.

Meanwhile, the Deep Blue Open Chess Tournament will kick off today at the Deep Blue D'Woodpushers Chess Club located at the second level of SM City-Cebu. (FREEMAN)