Cu Cu: Perfect record of seven wins in seven matches.

Xavier pride Cu rules KL blitz chess event

May 30, 2023 Ed Andaya 890 views

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Philippines’ pride, NM Ivan Travis Cu, did it again.

Cu, ever so eager to stamp his class in the international scene, emerged as the solo champion in the blitz event of the 47th Selangor Open Chess Championship Open at the KL Gateway Mall in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The 14-year-old student of Xavier School did it by winning all his seven matches in the SwIss system tournament that featured the region’s top young players.

Cu’s father, Teddy, shared his son’s success with friends and supporters .

“First and foremost, we give our thanks to God for his grace and guidance,” said the older Cu.

“We also extend our appreciation to our sponsors who have made our participation in this event possible — Go For Gold PH, PAGCOR, San Juan City Congresswoman Atty. Bel Zamora, San Juan City Vice Mayor Warren Villa, and several other supporter-friends who wish to remain anonymous,” added Cu.

Cu said the standard chess competition, which attracted more than 100 players from 11 countries, including the Philippines and host Malaysia, is still ongoing.

Cu rose to prominrnce after earning the individual bronze medal in the 2022 Asian Youth chess championship in Bali, Indonesia last Oct.13-22.

Last month, Cu added another feather to his cap by topping the National Capital Region Palarong Panrehiyon 2023 secondary boys chess tournament held at the Pinaglabanan Elementary School in San Juan last April 24-27.

Cu finished undefeated with five wins and two draws in the tough seven-round Swiss system tournament which attracted players from Metro Manila from Grade 7 to Grade 12.

He finished half a point ahead of two other players and earned the right to represent NCR in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa scheduled later this year.

After the 47th Selangor Chess Open in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Cu is also set to try his luck in the Singapore Chess Festival on June 4- 11.

Cu is being personally trained by IM Jan Emmanuel Garcia and Xavier School coach IA Rolly Yutuc.

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