OZAMIZ City’s wonder boy Johnny Wellem Carzano started the Year 2025 with a bang, winning two commercial chess tournaments in Mindanao.
Just recently, the small but sharp-thinking Carzano dominated the Nabilid Fiesta Open dubbed as the 10th Carlo and Wendy Chess Tournament in Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte, scoring 6.5 points in seven rounds ahead of second-placer Vernel Elmedulan (six points) and third-running Joselito Roxas (5.5 points).
The 36-year-old Carzano, however, told Gold Star Daily that his real test of might was his first triumph this year in early January against the big guns of Northern Mindanao chess.
The event?
The so-called Pasalamat Festival 2025 Mayor Sammy Co Rapid Chess Tournament was held at the Plaza Luz Covered Court City Hall Complex in Pagadian City on January 11-12.
There he waged what local chess experts considered an upset win in the final against Cagayan de Oro's tactical genius Johnnel Balquin to bring home the P15,000 top purse and the championship trophy.
In the semifinals, Carzano defeated another Cagayan de Oro ace, the ‘Persian Horse’ Basilio Pandan Jr, after overcoming the Pagadian City warrior Jones Maghuyop in the quarterfinals.
“Dream starts. Elated to secure the championship title. My sincere gratitude to my mentor Atty. Peter Chin Dur and Engr.Billy Joe Ereno for their guidance and support. Of course, to my NJSB Chess Academy family for the encouragement,” Carzano said.
