The Shenzhen Luohu International Chess Veteran Classic invitational concluded at the Luohu Sunshine Hotel on Sept. 25.

After five rounds of one-cycle matches, Ye Rongguang and Liu Shilan won the championship with three wins and two draws. The runners-up were Ye Jiangchuan and Wu Minqian, while the second runners-up were Wu Shaobin and An Yanfeng, followed by Wang Zili and Wu Xiaoying, Li Zunian and Zhao Lan, and Liang Jinrong and He Tianjian.

All of the 12 contestants belong to the first batch of Chinese chess players to take part in the World Team Chess Championship.

The average age of the participants hovers above 60 years old, however, their passion and love for the game are as strong as ever. “We cherish the opportunity that we can get together,” said second-place winner Ye Jiangchuan, “and we look forward to playing with each other next time.” Ye went on to say that the team of veteran chess players find joy in contributing to China’s place on the international chess stage.

Winner Liu Shilan echoed the sentiment, explaining, “We are happy to meet the old friends, and we all take the game seriously. It is a happy experience.”

He Tianjian said, “Attending the tournament is a victory and happiness in itself.”