IM Cardoso turns 72

(IN PHOTO: IM Cardoso still sharp at 72)

IM Rodolfo Cardoso, who erected the distinctive, monumental feat of being the only Filipino who beat the legendary Bobby Fischer, celebrated his 72nd birthday last December 25.

I’m not sure if his day of birth really falls on Christmas. But if so, hhmnnn, does it have something to do with Philippine chess? I mean, could he be the “Christ” of Philippine chess, born to this politically fucked up country to save chess players from evil things?

What I hear about this Philippine chess vanguard, a genuine gem, is that he instills in his students not only skills in chess but also humility and the right attitudes in life. That’s good.

Last December 30, a national holiday to commemorate the death of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, (the dates December 25 and December 30 remind us of holiness and nationalism, huh?) IM Cardoso celebrated his birthday with his students.

As my good chess friend shared: “Those who attended were former and present students of IM Cardoso: WNM Kathryn Ann Cruz who came all the way from Australia, brothers Joshua and Paulo Bersamina, the Cañada sisters of Adamson, Charmaine Casimina with her team mates from La Salle Lipa, Mark Dimaliwat of San Sebastian College, and Stephen Rome Pangilinan. Mr Orly Dimaliwat served as the arbiter and Mr. Reggie Tee generously gave pang-KFC to the winners.”

Belated happy birthday to IM Cardoso. More birthdays to come!!

A mini-chess tourney was held as part of the celebration.

The future of Philippine chess. RP's age-group titlists Stephen Rome Pangilinan and Paulo Bersamina.

Stephen and Paulo watching the game between Crissa Canada and Mark Dimaliwat.

Mr. Orly Dimaliwat.

Joshua Bersamina seems very happy beside Charmaine Casimina. The two look perfect as a chess couple, don't they?

IM Cardoso awarding the prizes to winners.