Ateneo student wins Philippine Sudoku Super Challenge

MANILA, Philippines – Alvin Ian Chan, an Ateneo student taking his fourth year in Applied Mathematics majoring in Mathematical Finance, became the latest Sudoku grandmaster at the recenlty held 8th Philippine Sudoku Super Challenge grand finals at SM City North EDSA’s Skydome last February 1.

Chan defeated 37 other contestants to claim the title in the Grandmaster Division for college students and professionals, earning himself P60,000 and a trophy for his win.

The win was a switch from the previous year as Chan, who was first runner-up last year, succeeded Kaye Janelle Yao of Grace Christian College, who became first runner-up this year, taking home P40,000. Chan has competed in the Mathematics Trainers’ Guild Philippines’ (MTG) Philippine Sudoku Super Challenge competitions since 2007.

In the Sudoku Wizard division for high schools students, 13-year-old Natalia Beatrice Dy claimed first prize and took home P50,000. Meanwhile, 12-year-old Jonathan Conrad Yu won P20,000 for topping the Sudoku Whiz Kid category.

Dr. Simon Chua, MTG president, said the winners will become the country’s representatives in a number of international competitions, such as the Sudoku Thailand International Open Princess Somsawali Cup, Beijing International Sudoku Tournament and the World Sudoku Championship in London. –  Rappler.com