Philippines Triumphs in Three Categories as Hong Kong Breaks into Top Ten
(Hong Kong, 11th August, 2025) Organized by the Hong Kong China Chess Federation, the highly anticipated Asian Amateur Chess Championships concluded over the weekend with resounding success. In main event, the Philippines achieved outstanding results with 3 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals, which was the best performance among all participants. China secured 2 silver medals, while Hong Kong, China also demonstrated strong competitiveness by advancing to the top ten in four different categories.
Philippines, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan Claim Championships
China and Hong Kong, China Deliver Strong Performances
Marking its 15th anniversary, the Asian Amateur Chess Championships was held in Hong Kong for the first time, drawing a record-breaking 400+ outstanding amateur players from nearly 30 countries and regions. After seven days of intense competition, Mongolia’s FM Khishigbat Ulziikhishig claimed victory in U2300 while Kazakhstan’s WCM Kristina Kim took top honors in the W2300. Philippine players dominated the lower divisions, with Jan Clifford Labog winning U2000 and Paul Christian Barroga claiming U1700, complemented by Yana Emilou De Vera’s victory in W1700. Mongolia’s Enkhsaikhan Odmaa rounded out the champions list by taking the W2000 crown.
China secured two silver medals through WFM Li Xinyu in W2300 and Xu Wei in U2000. For Hong Kong, China, CM Jamison Kao achieved 5th place in U2300, while Xia Xuejing claimed 8th place in W2300. Huang Jing finished 4th place in W1700 and Lo Ho Chun took 9th place in U1700.
Jamison Kao and Xia Xuejing Honored as
Most Outstanding Hong Kong Players
This year marks the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the 65th anniversary of the Federation. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the Championship has specially established a Special Prize to the most outstanding Hong Kong player, which was presented to CM Jamison Kao (Male) and Xia Xuejing (Female). Kao expressed that while his performance in the early stages was affected by physical discomfort, his exceptional play in the final three rounds secured him 5th place in the fiercely competitive U2300. This tournament added 13 rating points to his tally, edging him closer to his goal of reaching a 2100 rating points. Xia acknowledged that being named “Best Hong Kong Female” was a meaningful recognition of her years of dedication. She particularly praised the high-standard arrangement, noting that the overall quality of chess tournaments in Hong Kong has been consistently improving, enhancing the experience for all players.
Hisham Al Taher Geoffrey Kao
Mr. Geoffrey Kao, Honorary President of the Hong Kong China Chess Federation, stated, “ Organizing more international tournaments is crucial for developing local talent. In recent years, our Federation has consistently promoted various championships to provide high-level competitive platforms for Hong Kong chess players. The Asian Amateur Chess Championships has served as valuable training for athletes preparing for the National Games. This December, we will further advance the development of local chess by hosting the Hong Kong International Open Chess Championship.”
See Awards Ceremonies of Asian Amateur Chess Championship in Hong Kong – Asian Chess