IM Michael Concio Jr wins Philippine National Junior Chess Championship 2024
The Philippine National Junior Chess Championship concluded with an exhilarating finish as Gabriel Paradero, who had a half-point lead (6 pts), faced off against IM Michael Concio Jr (5.5 pts) in the final round. Concio's victory in this crucial match not only secured him the championship title but also showcased his exceptional skills under pressure. This dramatic turnaround highlights the competitive nature of the tournament and solidifies Concio's status as a rising star in Philippine chess.
Throughout the tournament, Concio's strategic vision, determination, experience and unwavering composure were evident in his gameplay, as he keep on pushing in the last round to gain title. His last 3 consecutive wins over Cyrus Vladimir Francisco, Mar Aviel Carredo and Gabriel Ryan Paradero resulted in his tournament victory with half-point lead.
In final round, Paradero played 44...d5? and leads to slight inferior position, instead of 44...Qxa3!=
His ability to capitalize on subtle nuances and exploit his opponents' positional weaknesses was a testament to his exceptional insight and analytical prowess, which ultimately set him apart as a force to be reckoned with.
In the diagram below Concio played the brilliant 46. Rxg6+!! and converted to winning position.
The pairing in the last (8th) round
The Final Standing after eight rounds.
The top 15 in National Juniors;
Champion - IM Concio Michael Jr. - P20,000
2nd Place - NM Abris Cedric Kahlel - P15,000
3rd Place - FM Bacojo Mark Jay - P10,000
4th Place - NM Paradero Gabriel Ryan - P7,000
5th Place - Francisco Cyrus Vladimir - P4,000
6th Place - NM Velarde Jerish John - P3,000
7th Place - FM Nouri Alekhine - P2,000
8th Place - NM Casiguran Phil Martin - P2,000
9th Place - Borce John Cyrus - P2,000
10th Place - Garcia John Andrew - P2,000
11th Place - Abeleda Ritchie James - P1,500
12th Place - De Asas Aaron Francis - P1,500
13th Place - Paraguya Yuri Lei - P1,500
14th Place - Carredo Mar Aviel - P1,500
15th Place - Rosaupan Jan Lei Kian - P1,500
The National Junior Chess Championship at PACE, Quezon City
In the climactic moments of the tournament, Concio's unwavering determination and unyielding spirit came to the fore, as he faced the last round solo leader Gabriel Ryan Paradero with exciting attacking battle with coach analysis (see the game below).
Chess has always been more than just a game to us; it is a journey of self-discovery, a test of character, and a source of endless fascination and joy.
Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.
by Coach Gerald Ferriol