Barbosa keeps GM norm in sight, trips Torre

MANILA — In-form International Master Oliver Barbosa had more than just a GM norm in sight in the National Chess Championships: 4th Battle of the Grandmasters at the National Press Club.

Barbosa outplayed Grandmaster Eugene Torre in 32 moves of Bogo Indian Defense in the seventh round on Tuesday night to raise his total to 5.0 points.
Torre, who won his previous two, was stuck at 4.0 points in the company of IMs Richard Bitoon and Rolando Nolte.

Bitoon and Nolte agreed to a truce after 32 moves of Philidor’s Defense. Both players are seeking their second GM norm.

According to International Arbiter Gene Poliarco, Barbosa can get a GM norm by reaching six points in the first nine rounds given the strength of his first nine opponents in the 13-round tournament.

But that’s not Barbosa’s priorities now.

“The goal is to win the championship every time [I join tournaments],” said Barbosa. “The rewards like the norms will come along the way as long as you’re winning.”