ARCA AND BERSAMINA DRAW IN BANGKOK CHESS CLUB OPEN SHOWDOWN

Filipino FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca’s pursuit of a Grandmaster (GM) norm hit a snag after drawing with fellow countryman International Master Pau Bersamina at the Bangkok Chess Club Open in Thailand on Saturday.

Arca, 16, initially gained a pawn advantage in their King’s Indian Attack duel but was unable to convert it into a decisive lead, settling for a 41-move draw by repetition.

As a result, Arca remained tied for fourth place with 5.5 points, alongside Bersamina and IM Michael Concio Jr., who won his match against China’s Zhang Haoxuan.

Arca can still secure a GM norm if he wins his remaining two games, including one against Indian GM Surya Shekhar Ganguly.

Alternatively, a single point from his last two games would earn Arca his third International Master (IM) norm.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 21, 2025