LUNA, Apayao – Empress Anika B. Caole, Ghierzen Lhou Sebastian, and Penelope Kate L. Sanchez led the Apayao Chess Eagles to victory, securing medals at the National Age Group Chess Championship (NAGCC) held at the Negros Oriental Convention Center, Dumaguete City, from June 1-5, 2024.
The National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), organized the NAGCC.
The Apayao Chess Eagles demonstrated their tenacity and dedication throughout the NAGCC, with three of the six Apayao chess masters earning medals as they stormed into the top 10.
Caole of Luna, a seven-year-old emerging star, led the team, securing eighth place in the Rapid Games for girls under ten and tenth in the Standard Games. Sebastian of Flora placed ninth in the Blitz Games, while Sanchez also of Luna finished ninth in the Rapid Games for the 14-year-old girls’ division.
Although they fought valiantly, Conner’s Jazz Aldrich Delacruz, Queenie Heart A. Orbosis, and Amirah Lia Caole of Luna narrowly missed the top 10 but gave their best efforts.
The event drew an unprecedented 500 participants, with top performers securing spots for the grand finals in Dapitan.
“The top eight of each category will clinch slots to the grand finals in Dapitan, where we will have truly the best of the best,” said NCFP Chief Executive Officer Jayson Gonzales.
The team expressed gratitude to all their supporters, especially the Provincial Government of Apayao under Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr., as well as their parents and coaches.
The Apayao Chess Eagles pledged to maintain their rigorous training regimen and continue representing the province with pride in both national and international chess competitions. By Krizza Joy Castillo