Frayna picks up pieces, rules blitz

MANILA, Philippines — Janelle Mae Frayna vented all her frustrations from losing her crown in standard play by ruling the blitz event of the Philippine National Chess Championships presented by Nova Wellness Store at the PACE last Wednesday.

The 25-year-old Woman Grandmaster finished undefeated with 9.5 points out of a possible 11 on eight victories and three draws to rule the side event that used lightning-quick time control.

The triumph made up for her heartbreak in failing to defend the classical crown, which went to Woman International Master Marie Antoinette San Diego.

The country’s Olympiad top board chesser thus went home with a runner-up finish in standard where she consoled herself with a P30,000 purse, and a blitz trophy.

Not bad for a week’s work.