Selection Criteria for World Cup Rapid Xiangqi Event
Thank you to all who have registered your interest in this event.
7 adult players (5 males and 2 females) have been selected using the following criteria.
The players must have achieved at least a top 3 position for any of the following competitions within the past 3 years (2024-2026): • 孙文广全国个人赛（男：A组，女：女子组） • 擎天杯棋王赛 • 图龙杯 • 蔡厝港个人公开赛 • Pesta Sukan
They will then be ranked according to the latest rating score (等级分).
In addition, 3 youth players who have also been selected.
We have privately reached out to the selected players so they can make preparations for this tournament.
Honoured to attend the official opening of the North Zone Xiangqi Club’s clubhouse in Ang Mo Kio.
We applaud Mr Goh Teck Soon for promoting xiangqi in the community and initiating the first friendly match between the North and East Zone Xiangqi Clubs. We also thank the residents’ community for providing a space where players can meet on weekends—not only to sharpen their minds through xiangqi, but also to build friendships and strengthen social connections among seniors.
May the clubhouse continue to bring players of all ages together and keep xiangqi thriving in our community.
Dr Kong Jing Wen President Singapore Xiangqi General Association
2026 World Xiangqi Tournament Series to be Held in Singapore from 10–15 November
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association (SIXGA) is honoured to co-host the 2026 World Xiangqi Tournament Series with the World Xiangqi Federation (WXF), to be held in Singapore from 10 to 15 November 2026.
The official event website is now live. International players and guests may visit the website for tournament information, registration, accommodation details and other important updates.
The tournament series features three prestigious world events, including the 5th World Xiangqi Open Tournament, which has traditionally been held in Europe. Its debut in Singapore marks a significant milestone for both the tournament and the continued development of Xiangqi in Singapore.
We look forward to welcoming players, arbiters, officials and guests from around the world to Singapore for an exciting week of world-class competition, friendship and cultural exchange, as we celebrate and advance the global development of Xiangqi together.
On 17 August 2026, the Singapore Xiangqi General Association (SIXGA) and Asian Mind Sports Association (AMSA) signed two strategic cooperation agreements to advance the development of Xiangqi in the new era, including an MOU to jointly promote and co-host the upcoming World Xiangqi Tournament Series in Singapore this November.
Together, we hope to open new possibilities for Xiangqi, inspire the next generation, and bring the mind sport to greater heights in Singapore and beyond.
Signing Dr Kong Jing Wen (right), President of SIXGA, and Mr Jim Yu (left), Director-General of the AMSA Executive Board, sign the agreement.Handshake A handshake marking a new chapter of cooperation between SIXGA and AMSA.👍 A show of support for a new chapter in Xiangqi development. From left: Mr Alvin Teo, Mr Jim Yu, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Mr Vincent Ng.
A Xiangqi Tournament Filled with Thrilling Comebacks and Unforgettable Moments!
Yesterday’s Chan Soo Sen Cup National Xiangqi Open delivered excitement from start to finish, with every round packed with drama that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
This year’s tournament was played using graphical Xiangqi chess sets, where pictorial symbols replaced the traditional Chinese character pieces. This unique format not only gave the tournament a distinctive identity but also made the pieces more easily recognizable to players from different linguistic backgrounds, further promoting the globalisation of Xiangqi.
It was especially encouraging to see a strong turnout of youth players this year, competing alongside seasoned veterans. Their enthusiasm, fighting spirit, and tremendous potential have injected fresh energy into Singapore’s Xiangqi community and give us great confidence in the future of the game.
One of the most memorable moments came in Round 6. In an intense time scramble, with only seconds remaining on the clock, Master Allen Choo held his nerve under immense pressure to defeat tournament favourite Master Li De Zhi, producing one of the biggest upsets of the event. The game was a brilliant display of composure, resilience, and decision-making under extreme pressure.
The excitement continued into the final round. Jovan Wang found himself in a difficult position but never gave up, patiently searching for his opportunity. When his opponent made a critical blunder, Wang seized the moment to complete a stunning comeback and secure a crucial victory. It was yet another reminder that in Xiangqi, the game is never over until the very last move.
What made the tournament even more remarkable was how incredibly close the competition was. Second and third place were separated by just one additional win with the black pieces. Such a razor-thin margin reflects the exceptionally high standard of play, where every game—and every single move—could make the difference in the final standings.
Congratulations to all the prize winners, and heartfelt thanks to every participant for contributing such exciting and memorable games. While victory is important, it was the fighting spirit, composure under pressure, and determination displayed by all the players that truly made this tournament special.
Finally, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Chan Soo Sen, the tournament’s Title Sponsor, and Singapore China Baijiu for their generous support and sponsorship. Their invaluable contributions made this event possible, providing players with a high-quality platform to compete while promoting the continued growth and development of Xiangqi in Singapore.
We were also honoured to have Dr. Kong Jing Wen, President of the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, grace the prize presentation ceremony. Joining him were Honorary Members Mr. Lim Kwan How, Mr. Lee Sit Seng, and Mr. Charles Oon, President of the Singapore China Baijiu. Mr. Chan Soo Sen also serves as an Advisor to the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, reflecting his longstanding commitment to the development of Xiangqi in Singapore.
A big thank you as well to all the players, arbiters, volunteers, staff, and supporters who made this tournament a success. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the next Chan Soo Sen Cup National Xiangqi Open for even more exciting Xiangqi battles!
Guest of Honour and Title Sponsor Mr. Chan Soo Sen addressing the audience
Top 8 Winners
Champion Master Allen Choo receives the championship trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.1st Runner Up – Jovan Wong receives the runner-up trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.Second Runner-up – Master Li De Zhi receives the third-place trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.Fourth-place finisher –Yang Di Sheng receives the prize from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.5th Place – Tan Bo Er receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.6th Place – Alvin Tan receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.7th Place – Chow Kim Sun receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.8th Place – Lin Ming Jie receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.Top 8 Winners group photo with Guest of Honours
Special Prize Winners
Top U12 Player Bao Yifei receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop U16 Player and 5th Place Tan Bo Er receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop Senior player Chia Siang Koon receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop Female Participant Fiona Tan receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin Wen
The People Behind the Tournament
Past and Present Leadership – Dr Kong Jing Wen and Mr Lim Kwan HowOur Dedicated Arbiters and Staff
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.
Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen
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
U9 Category 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.
U12 Category 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.
U16 Category 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 HongU21 Category From left to right: Silver medallist Zelig Yoo, Gold medallist Jovan Wong, Bronze medallist Li Junkai and Dr Kong Jing WenOpen Category From left to right: Silver medallist Lee Kwei Mean, Gold medallist GMAlvin Woo, Bronze medallist Chiu Wei Lin and Dr Kong Jing WenVeteran Category 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.
Team Nila working behind the scenes to make the event a 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.
