INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines ? Far Eastern University blanked New Era University to sweep the National Capital Region women?s chess tournament of the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) National Games Wednesday at the Manila Business College in Sta. Cruz, Manila.

Women?s National Master Jedara Docena defeated Rizza Ocampo after 27 moves of a Vienna Opening on Board 1; Rulp Ylem Jose won via default on Board 2; Jenny Rose Palomo trounced Charmaine Miguel after 33 moves of a Nimzo Indian defense on Board 3; and Ronna Reigner Senora crushed Veronica Tarafica after 29 moves of a King?s Pawn Opening on Board 4.

The Lady Tamaraws, thus, finished the tournament with a perfect three-round output of 12.0 points to claim the championship and represent the NCR region in the national finals slated on February 23 at the Rizal Technological University in Mandaluyong City.

New Era University is the reigning National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU) women?s chess champion.

In the men?s play, FEU defeated Colegio San Juan de Letran, 3.5-0.5, to inch closer to the title with 10.0 points.

Lyndon Sombilon edged Nino Datu after 47 moves of a French defense on Board 1; Luffe Magdalaga waylaid Chester Brian Guerrero after 23 moves of a Slav defense on Board 3; and Antonio Chavez Jr. prevailed over Benjamin Lising after 50 moves of a Sicilian defense on Board 4.

Former World Youth age-group campaigner Ivan Gil Biag settled a truce with FEU?s Sheider Nebato after 47 moves of a Trompovsky Opening on Board 2 to prevent a shutout loss.

Earlier, the Tamaraws scored victories over RTU, 2-5-1.5, and New Era University, 4-0. Their last round opponent is Asia Pacific College. ? Marlon Bernardino, Bandera

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