Paragua wins Atlantic Open

BY: MARLON BERNARDINO

(Photo from chessgames.com)

FILIPINO Grandmaster (GM) Mark Callano Paragua defeated American GM John Fedorowitch in the fifth and final round to finish a tie for first with GM Alexander Shabalov and Alex Barnett of the host country at the conclusion of 42nd Annual Atlantic Open Chess Championships last August 27 to 29 at the Washington Westin Hotel in Washington, D.C, USA.

Paragua, the 2003 Southeast Asian Games most bemedalled athlete prevails after 29 moves of a King's Indian Defense using the advantageous white pieces in the event organized by the Continental Chess Association (CCA) which attracted 353 chess players.

Paragua, Shabalov and Barnett notch 4.5 points in five outings. Paragua and Barnett went home $1,167 each while Shabalov took the bonus $100 for a total of $1,267.
In the Under 2100 section, US based Pinoy William Marcelino took the title in the huge group of 4 pointers.

After winning the tough and prestigious 42nd Annual Atlantic Open Chess Championships, the Marilao, Bulacan ace Paragua continued his winning run in the 10 Grand Prix Tonights last September 2 in New York, New York.

Paragua and GM Alexander Lenderman finish 3.5 points each after four games of play to share the top honors.