Dragon at the Gates

On the third and last day of the 2nd “机器人谷杯” (“Robot Valley Cup”) China City Chess League came the supreme opportunity for four-time Women’s World Chess Champion 侯逸凡 (Hóu Yìfán), in representation of the chess pros, to deliver her celebration speech: “Thank you everyone who has contributed to the success of this City League. A successful format which groups together women, men and juniors through all its stages of qualification up to the final. A true carnival of chess where people of different extraction and background, both professionals and non-professionals, did their best for the success of our meeting. As for the Final, once again I would like to congratulate the champion team of 杭州银行队 (Hángzhōu Bank), the runner-up team of 青岛城阳队 (Qīngdǎo Chéngyáng), and everyone who lent their time and skills to the competition. The new year is coming soon, and I wish everyone peace and happiness”. Photo: Sina Sports.