The 2013 Oceania Zonal Chess Championships took place on 4-10th May at the Sonaisali Island Resort, Fiji Islands.
Australian FM Igor Bjelobrk took the $1.000 first prize after finishing in the clear lead among the 38 participants. His 7.5/9 score was enough to overcome the opposition. Bjelobrk only drew one game, got seven wins and suffered a single loss against his unrated compatriot Justin Tan.
Ari Dale and Justin Tan, both Australians as well, finished in second and third places, respectively. First seed GM Johansen Darryl only arrived in fourth place.
The women’s event was won by the favorite by rating, Australian IM Irina Berezina. She edged WIM Emma Guo on tiebreaks after both of them obtained an impressive 8/9 score.
Final Standings – Open Championship (top finishers):
1 FM Bjelobrk Igor AUS 2329 7.5
2 Dale Ari AUS 2222 7
3 Tan Justin AUS 2249 6.5
4 GM Johansen Darryl K. AUS 2430 6
IM Illingworth Max AUS 2423 6
6 Smirnov Anton AUS 2194 6
7 IM Lane Gary W. AUS 2412 5.5
8 FM Smith Robert W NZL 2227 5.5
9 Mandla Blair AUS 2123 5.5
10 Zelesco Karl AUS 2169 5.5
11 FM Fancy Stuart PNG 2091 5.5
Will they get a world cup berth.