Photo credits to Andrew Ooi Boon Seng
Gabriel Ryan, 15 years old, a 10th-grade student from Victory Christian International School - Homeschool Global Philippines, delivered an outstanding performance. He achieved 5 wins and 1 draw across 6 intense rounds in the U16 Division, organized by the Dato' Tan Chin Nam Foundation. The competition was fierce, with each participant aiming for victory, but Gabriel Ryan's strategic prowess and composure under pressure saw him emerge victorious.
The tournament's podium featured Arena Grandmaster Io Aristotle Nicolai from the Philippines in second place, while Arena Candidate Master Meng Ren Morgan Chen from Singapore took third.
In addition to his individual triumphs, Gabriel Ryan also celebrated a team victory as part of the ACA (Asean Chess Academy) Heavy Bombers at the SMS Deen Merdeka Open Rapid Team Chess Championships 2024. Competing in the Top Junior Team (U16) category, Gabriel and his teammates—National Master Al-Basher Buto, Arena Candidate Master Meng Ren Morgan Chen, and Jun De Alexander Tan—demonstrated exceptional skill and coordination. Their collective performance secured them the top junior team honor.
In his post-tournament remarks, Gabriel Ryan expressed his gratitude and disbelief at his achievement: "I didn't expect this win because all the participants in this tournament are very strong. I did my best to put up a good fight. I am extremely happy to have won and to bring honor to the Philippines. I am grateful to everyone who prayed for me and helped me get here. Thank you to the Lord for His blessings. Thanks to my parents for everything they do to support me. I also want to thank my coach, Gerry Paul Nudalo, for his unwavering assistance in helping me improve my chess skills. Thanks to the Sangguniang Kabataan of Pinagbuhatan, led by Ma'am Keil Custillas. Many thanks to Councilor Maro Martires and the entire Pasig LGU for supporting Pasig City grassroots chess. Thank you to Coach Franco Camillo and the other coaches. I also appreciate coach GM Nelson Mariano and coach FM Elo Mariano for inviting me to play in Malaysia. Thank you to the National Chess Federation of the Philippines for their endorsement."
Gabriel Ryan's success at the Malaysian Chess Festival 2024 follows his recent win at the 2024 National Age Group Chess Championships and various local tournaments. With his continued dedication, Gabriel Ryan is poised to compete at even higher levels and is set to represent Pasig City at the upcoming 2024 Batang Pinoy in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, this December.
Contributed photo.
Contributed photo.
Contributed photo.
Contributed photo.
Facebook Conversations