NCAA Chess Opening Ceremony

The parade of the teams began as scheduled at 1130 with former congressman and current NCFP president, Prospero Pichay Jr arriving early. The players showed off their uniforms and my personal taste would tell you, Mapua Institute of Technology had the best jacket. I really like their design and color of choice.

Well anyway, the NCFP president made clear of his goals and vision for chess in the Philippines. He challenged the players to put in discipline and hardwork for their chess studies and yes, he also made sure everyone gets to hear the achievements NCFP has made during his reign. I wouldn't mind being placed in that situation as I believe the president has been the successful "ninong" for chess the past years.

After the games were declared open, ceremonial moves were made by GM Jayson Gonzales against NCAA MANCOM Chair for Chess, Mr. EJY Supan.

Games commenced at 130pm. The playing venue was really good! Organizers made sure there was a waiting room adjacent the playing hall. The hall had 4 doors with only one open from the outside. Non-coaches and players were not allowed to enter and had to make themselves satisfied watching from the door window panels. Before I forget, the waiting room was as cold (geeh! your AC's are all new!)as the playing hall with additional bonuses for the standbys. An LCD projector was placed and showed the board one match between CSB and UPHD seniors.

Results of the matches:

Juniors

St. Benilde-LSGH vs University of Perpetual Help : 3 - 1
Colegio de San Juan de Letran vs San Beda College : 4 - 0
San Sebastian College vs Mapua Institute of technology : 2.5 - 1.5

Jose Rizal University : BYE

As of this writing, I haven't got the results for the seniors division.

For the second round game schedules, check our posting here.

Till then!