The annual Pesta Sukan Xiangqi Competition 2026, organised by Sport Singapore, concluded successfully over the weekend of 18–19 July 2026, bringing together players from across generations in one of Singapore’s premier community sporting festivals.
The two-day event featured competitions across Under-9, Under-12 and Under-16 categories on Saturday (18 July), followed by the Under-21, Open and Veteran categories on Sunday (19 July). From enthusiastic young beginners to seasoned masters, the tournament showcased not only exceptional playing strength but also the continued growth of Singapore’s Xiangqi community.
A Promising Future for Singapore Xiangqi
The first day of competition highlighted the tremendous progress made by Singapore’s young Xiangqi talents. While medals were awarded to the top performers, many of the tournament’s most memorable moments came from the resilience and composure displayed by the participants.
One of the most dramatic encounters unfolded in the Under-16 category, where the championship race remained undecided until the very end. Both players entered severe time pressure, with only their final minute remaining on the clock, eventually sharing the point after a fiercely contested draw.
Equally impressive was a remarkable Under-12 endgame, where a young player calmly converted a difficult single rook versus two advisors and two advanced pawns (单车对双士双过河卒) position into victory despite having less than one minute remaining. The game demonstrated not only technical skill but also exceptional decision-making under pressure.
During the prize presentation ceremony, Singapore Xiangqi National Team player GM Alvin Woo Tsung Han—a 12-time Singapore National Champion, 2023 SEA Games Gold Medallist, and 2023 World Xiangqi Championship Men’s Team Champion—presented the prizes to the winners. His presence served as an inspiration to the next generation, reminding young players that world-class excellence can indeed be nurtured here in Singapore.
Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen shared that while artificial intelligence continues to transform many aspects of society, qualities such as analytical thinking, resilience, and sound decision-making under uncertainty will remain invaluable. Xiangqi, he noted, develops precisely these attributes, ensuring its continued relevance in nurturing future generations.
He also paid tribute to the many parents who patiently accompanied and supported their children throughout the competition, recognising that every young player’s journey is made possible through the quiet sacrifices and unwavering encouragement of their families.
High-Level Battles Across the Senior Categories
Sunday’s competitions saw the Under-21, Open and Veteran categories take centre stage, with many of Singapore’s strongest players competing in fiercely contested rounds.
Reflecting on the two-day tournament, Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen remarked that the overall standard of Xiangqi in Singapore has continued to improve significantly. The quality of play, fighting spirit and sportsmanship displayed across all categories were a testament to the dedication of players, coaches and the wider Xiangqi community.
In his address, he encouraged participants with a simple yet meaningful message:
“While we all strive to make the best move on the Xiangqi board, may we also strive to make the best moves in life.”
The Open category once again demonstrated the depth of Singapore’s elite players, with GM Alvin Woo Tsung Han successfully defending his Open championship title through another outstanding performance.
The Under-21 championship was claimed by Jovan Wong, whose consistent play throughout the tournament earned him the top honours among Singapore’s emerging young adults.
One of the most inspiring stories of the weekend came from the Veteran category. Mr Lim Kwan How, Immediate Past President and Permanent Honorary President of the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, entered the tournament as its oldest participant. Defying age, he produced a flawless seven wins from seven games to capture the Veteran championship. During the prize presentation ceremony, participants and officials also surprised him by singing a birthday song in celebration of his upcoming birthday, creating one of the weekend’s most heartwarming moments.
His remarkable achievement served as a powerful reminder that passion, discipline and the pursuit of excellence know no age limit.
Podium Finish
From left to right: Silver medallist Glen Bao Yifei, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Chen Pinxi, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Lin Ziwei.
From left to right: Silver medallist Guo Heyang, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Daniel Raphael Lau, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Brian Ng Yi Kai.
From left to right: Silver medallist Wu Yihan Charles, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Zhang Qishuo, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Chiang Yin Hong
From left to right: Silver medallist Zelig Yoo, Gold medallist Jovan Wong, Bronze medallist Li Junkai and Dr Kong Jing Wen
From left to right: Silver medallist Lee Kwei Mean, Gold medallist GM Alvin Woo, Bronze medallist Chiu Wei Lin and Dr Kong Jing Wen
From left to right: Silver medallist Lim Cheng Chwee, Gold medallist Lim Kwan How, Bronze medallist Chin Min Kwong and Dr Kong Jing Wen
A Celebration of the Xiangqi Community
Beyond the results, Pesta Sukan 2026 was a celebration of Singapore’s vibrant Xiangqi community. Players of all ages came together to compete, learn and forge friendships through the game they love.
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association extends its heartfelt appreciation to Sport Singapore for organising this year’s Pesta Sukan, as well as to all the players, arbiters, volunteers, coaches, parents and supporters whose dedication made the event a resounding success.
With the standard of play continuing to rise across every age group, the future of Singapore Xiangqi looks brighter than ever. SIXGA looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to develop players from grassroots to elite levels, inspiring more Singaporeans to discover and enjoy the rich tradition of Xiangqi.
