Five-Time World Champion Ju Wenjun visits Hong Kong

Five-time Women’s World Chess Champion Grandmaster Ju Wenjun, who successfully defended her title just last week, does what a world champion should do – spreads the joy of chess through the world. Ju Wenjun made a visit to Hong Kong, an appearance coincided with a welcome event and exhibition match organized by the Hong Kong China Chess Federation in collaboration with Lingnan University. Accompanying her was her coach, Grandmaster Ni Hua.

During this visit, the Hong Kong China Chess Federation also announced the upcoming Asian Amateur Chess Championship, set to take place in August 2025. Ju has been invited as the guest of honor to witness this significant occasion.

Asian Amateur Chess Championship Gathers Chess Elite

Robin Lai, Vice President of the Hong Kong China Chess Federation, expressed gratitude for Ju Wenjun’s participation in the exhibition match. He stated, “This event not only promises excitement but also provides a valuable opportunity for Ju to engage with chess enthusiasts and young players. We hope this will inspire more youth to immerse themselves in the world of chess and pursue their own chess aspirations.”

The Asian Amateur Chess Championship will run from August 1 to 9 at the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals’ Tung Po Centre. Following last year’s successful Asian Rapid Chess Team Championship, this event is expected to attract hundreds of participants, with a total prize pool of HKD 289,500. The competition will feature both open and women’s categories, including divisions for U1700, U2000, U2300, as well as rapid and blitz tournaments.

Ju Wenjun Encourages Chess Fans: Enjoy the Joy of Chess

Ju Wenjun expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome from the Hong Kong China Chess Federation and local chess players. Reflecting on her own journey as a young chess player, she encouraged attendees to relax and fully enjoy the game. “Having participated in the Asian Rapid Chess Team Championship last August, I found Hong Kong to be a beautiful city with high standards of events and venues. I am excited about the upcoming Asian Amateur Chess Championship at Tung Po and look forward to new surprises.”

Higher Education Institutions Establish Interdisciplinary College Funding Programs to Promote Sports Development

As Hong Kong’s sports industry flourishes, many local higher education institutions are responding to societal needs by establishing interdisciplinary colleges and related funding initiatives to support the development of sports talent. Lingnan University, as a pioneer in this area, has created various scholarships to assist exceptional athletes in balancing academic and athletic pursuits. Its interdisciplinary college offers the “Entrance Scholarships for Student Athletes” and “Outstanding Performance Scholarship for Elite Athlete” to reward athletes who excel in both local and international competitions.

Lingnan University Promotes Liberal Arts Education to Foster Cultural Dialogue

Prof Raymond Hon-fu Chan, Vice-President (Academics) cum Provost and Lam Man Tsan Chair Professor of Scientific Computing at Lingnan University, remarked on the pride of hosting this high-caliber international chess exchange event. “This initiative aligns with our mission to promote liberal arts education and global engagement. It encourages students to pursue independent thinking, creativity, and innovation while facilitating inspiration and cultural dialogue through interaction with a five-time world champion, ultimately supporting personal development and broadening global perspectives.”

About 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.

News and updates by Xia Xuejing aka Sky Xia

This article is brought to you by Xia Xuejing aka Sky Xia. She is a Hong Kong chess player, born May 28th, 2007. Sky Xia is currently #7 ranked among female players of Hong Kong, having added 85 ELO points in February and 35 ELO points in March.

More news from Sky Xia: Chinese Team Chess Championship 2025 / Chinese Women Team Chess Championship 2025