Red Dimaano of 4-A is champion of DLSU Chemistry Challenge
Ateneo de Manila High School senior Rafael “Red” Dimaano of 4-A is the champion of the 14th DLSU Chemistry Challenge, held last October 19 at the Fajardo-Gonzalez Auditorium of De La Salle University in Manila. The Chemistry Challenge is an annual activity organized by the DLSU Chemistry Department to promote academic excellence in the field of chemistry. It is one of the biggest inter-high school chemistry competitions in Metro Manila, with over 100 schools participating every year.
Red’s coach, Mr. Jay Gregorio of the AHS Science Subject Area, explains that the contest consisted of three rounds of questions about intermolecular forces, chemical thermodynamics, thermochemistry, chemical kinetics and chemical equilibria. It was no easy feat for Red to emerge as victor, considering how tight the competition was between him and the other two finalists, both of whom were from Xavier.
Professor Richard Heck, co-recipient of the 2010 Nobel Chemistry Prize and a fellow of DLSU, was present to congratulate the winners and their coaches.
Red’s win marks the first time that an Ateneo High School student has won the DLSU Chemistry Challenge. He took home a trophy and a P12,000 cash prize.
