THE Davao Chess Eagles team will see action in the FIDE World Team Rapid & Blitz Chess Team Championships on June 17 to 22 in Hong Kong.
The team is composed of IM Kim Steven Yap [2289], FM Randy Segarra [2150], Aglipay Oberio [2078], Jose Dionisio Guevarra Jr. [1997], Mary Israel Palero [1839], Winston Joseph Silva [1966], Florence Faith Guevarra [1816], Glenn Sayson Paclar [1400] and team captain Christopher Yap [1750].
“I feel honored to be part of the Davao team,” said IM Kim Steven Yap.
“I will do my best. Thank you for this golden opportunity to compete alongside the best players in the world,” he added.
Guevarra, on the other hand, said: “We welcome IM Kim Steven Yap of Cebu as our final addition to our team.”
Out of 46 teams all over the world, the Davao Eagles are seeded 42.
“We are the heavy underdogs but we will definitely give it a good try,” said Guevarra.
Guevarra is used “to only dream of getting a picture with Magnus, Wesley and other superstars of chess.”
“Now I am given a once in a lifetime opportunity to play in the same venue with them,” said Guevarra.
The FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships 2026 are set to make their historic debut in Hong Kong at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.
It is organised by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the Hong Kong China Chess Federation,
The event will gather hundreds of the world's elite grandmasters and passionate recreational players alike.
Legendary Magnus Carlsen is expected to headline the field.
The tournament has been awarded with ‘M’ Mark status, highlighting Hong Kong's appeal as Asia's events capital and further solidifying the city's position as a premier hub for international cultural exchange.
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