The Pan -American Chess Festival games kicked off on 2nd July'07, with a formal opening.The participating countries- Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Argentina ,Mexico, Guatemala,Panama, Nicaragua, Panama, Urugay,Costa Rica, Brasil,host country Colombia, from the Caribbean Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.
A total of 722 participants, largest tournament compared to last year in Ecuador.Well Ronnie Nelson , Trinidad and Tobago National 8 and 10 Champion, participated in the sub 8, earning 5 games out of the 9.With a great start winning his first 2 games, then with a dramatic end, taking his last games in fine fashion.
He won the following players , David Juan Plata- Colombia, Matias Contreras- Chile, Victor Luis- Bolivia, Renzo Bassan-Venezuela and Fernando Cruz- Colombia.
His Fide International performance rating performance now stands at 1400.Competing against 62 players he ended in 18th place being among the top 20 in his catergory.So, indeed he flew the Trinidad and Tobago fly high , being feared as the Caribbean Chess Tiger.He is due to compete in Guatemala at the Caribbean and Central American games from 25th -29th July'2007, then the Sagicor Chess opens in Barbados from 12th -17th August'2007.
Although Ronnie trip to Colombia was plague with much trials, one only have to give thanks to the two good Samaritan who responded with generosity to ensure that Ronnie will continue to shine in his chess career and have promise to pave a bright future for our Caribbean Chess tiger.
Its indeed the parable of the story of the Good Samaritan, without the support of his school Administrator, school community, the sporting ministry he rose above the ashes with the support of these good samaritan.
So on behalf of Ronnie, his dad and family we extend our heartfelt appreciation and blessings on your family.Also we acknowledge the intercession of the prophets Elijah and Francis , they have never fail him thus far. Moreso for the continued support by June Johnson who have never fail to bring R.J stories in the heart of your home.May the spirit of Elijah and Francis be with us always.
