JUST this June, multi-awarded chesser Sander Severino notched another achievement when he took first place at the first IPCA (Internationally Physically Disabled Chess Association) Online World Championship.
Besting international rivals, including a five-time PWD champ from Ukraine, the 34-year-old from Negros Occidental won by just 1.5 points ahead of his closest competition. He won a total of eight games and one draw.
Just a month prior, he had won second place at the FIDE Online Cup for People with Disabilities.
Back in 2018, Severino was also a multiple gold medalist at the Asia Para Games.
In an interview after his IPCA match, the affable Severino talked about his outlook in life in a video interview with SPIN.ph video staff.
“Lahat naman tayo, may mga kanya-kanyang struggles,” he said. “Embrace lang po natin.”
Truly humbling words from someone who has been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, a progressive disease that damages his muscles, since he was 8 years old. Wheelchair bound, he’s been using the pandemic to study chess plays and strategies in an effort to emulate his idol, champ Wesley So.
And while he may be a champion himself right now, Severino keeps things low-key, cheerful, and humble.
“Ang mga problema nandiyan lang para i-solve natin, katulad ng sa chess,” said Severino.
Watch the full interview below:
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