Atin Ito First Filipino Community Newspaper in Ontario
MANILA – Filipino chess player Oscar Joseph “OJ” Cantela is setting his sights on becoming the country’s next World Chess Federation (FIDE) Master.
The Grade 11 student is a member of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 86 high school boys champion Far Eastern University – Diliman coached by Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales.
Cantela holds a National Master title and to become a FIDE Master, he has to compete in tournaments with rated players.
First on his list is the 21st Bangkok Chess Club Open scheduled at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa in Phetchaburi, Thailand from April 13 to 21.
“I hope to do well in Thailand and gain some Elo rating points,” said Cantela, a resident of San Juan Uno, General Trias, Cavite.
His current Elo rating points are 2009 (standard), 1772 (rapid), and 1791 (blitz).
Cantela won the gold medal in the 16-under category of the 12th Dato’ Tan Chin Nam Foundation Open Rapid Age-Group Chess Championship on Aug. 27 last year.
He gained 100 Elo rating points at the 2023 World Youth Chess Championships held in Montesilvano, Italy on Nov. 24. — Jean Malanum (PNA)
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Credit belongs to: www.pna.gov.ph
