Zhu Chen, FIDE Treasurer (left), and Tony Yue, BBS, JP, Vice-President of SFOC (right), make the ceremonial opening moves in the Asian Amateur Women’s section..
The Hong Kong China Chess Federation is proud to host the Asian Amateur Chess Championships 2025 at TWGHs TungPo Kitty Woo Stadium from August 1st to 9th.
The championship promises to be an extraordinary event as it is the 15th edition and the first time Hong Kong serves as the host. With a prize pool more than HK$200,000, the championship has drawn nearly 400 outstanding amateur players from 25 Asian regions, including China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, India, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. This participation surpasses previous years’ records and underscores Hong Kong’s potential as the “hub for mind sports in Asia.”
Cheng Ka-ho MH, JP, Member of the Sha Tin District Council (left), and Hisham Al-Taher, General Secretary of the Asian Chess Federation (right), make the ceremonial moves in the Asian Amateur Open Division.
Blitz and Rapid Chess Champion Crowned
The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including:
• Ms. Zhu Chen, Treasurer of the FIDE Management Board and Former Women’s World Chess Champion
• Mr. Hisham Al-Taher, General Secretary of the Asian Chess Federation
• Mr. Tony Yue, BBS, JP, Vice-President of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China
• Mr. Cheng Ka-ho, MH, JP, Member of the Sha Tin District Council, thrice champion of World Wushu Championships (Nanquan and Nangun) and Former Chairman of the Sir David Trench Fund For Recreation
During the nine-day tournament, in addition to the thrilling main event, the chess federation has also arranged blitz and rapid chess competitions prior to the opening ceremony to help players warm up their minds and get into competitive form. In Open Blitz, the championship was claimed by Filipino FM Alekhine Nouri.
Hong Kong, China players also delivered strong performances, with FM Samuel Lam Chun Yung and CM Jamison Kao respectively securing sixth and eighth place.
The Women’s Blitz champion was won by Russian FM Ekaterina Borisova.
In Open Rapid, Mongolian FM Khishigbat Ulziikhishig emerged as the champion, while the Women Rapid’s champion was taken by Indian WFM Mukherjee Bristy.
The “Triple Crown” Winner Representing Hong Kong at the National Games has Joined
The Asian Amateur Chess Championships also serves as a prelude to the upcoming 15th National Games. Three members of Hong Kong, China’s chess delegation for the National Games are participating, including:
• CM Boris Chan Wang Ip, Hong Kong’s rare “Triple Crown” winner (simultaneous champion in standard in 2025, rapid in 2023, and blitz in 2023 )
• FM Henry Ho In Hei
• Tong Ho Man, amateur player
It also reflects the credibility of the championship that the top three winners of the U2300 category, as well as the champions of the U2000 category, will directly receive the title of Candidate Master (CM) or Woman Candidate Master (WCM) recognized by FIDE.
A Trio of Competition, Charity, and Culture
The championship also features a variety of engaging activities to energize the community. In collaboration with Po Leung Kuk and Hong Kong Association for AD/HD, chess workshops are being held.
With guidance from professional instructors and fun interactive lessons, participating students will learn about chess in a relaxed environment, fostering a new vitality in chess culture. Theophilus Wait, Director of Operations of the online chess platform Lichess is invited to conduct an exchange session, where he will share the platform’s corporate story to chess enthusiasts.
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The Hong Kong China Chess Federation
The Hong Kong China Chess Federation (HKCCFL) is an NSA dedicated to promoting chess in Hong Kong. Established in 1960, HKCCFL has been instrumental in fostering the growth of chess within the region, connecting players across all skill levels, and enhancing Hong Kong’s international recognition as a prominent chess-playing community.
As a member of FIDE, HKCCFL is committed to cultivating talent and nurturing a vibrant chess culture through regular events and tournaments. Over the years, its efforts have supported the development of skilled players who proudly represent Hong Kong, China in prestigious international competitions, such as the Asian Games and Chess Olympiads. Many of these players have earned esteemed FIDE titles, reflecting the Federation’s dedication to excellence in chess. By encouraging participation and supporting schools and chess clubs, HKCCFL ensures chess’ continued growth and sustainability for future generations.
The Hong Kong China Chess Federation continues to inspire, educate, and empower individuals through chess, fostering a lifelong passion and building bridges across communities.
Media Inquiry
Eva Tang
Contact: 2155 2346 / 6332 5700
Email: eva@jointpr.hk
