Chess prodigy Lou Yuxin claims gold medal at Chess Olympiad, sets Hong Kong record

Lou Yuxin has a new piece of decor in her home: a gold medal from the 45th Chess Olympiad. At 12, Yuxin is the youngest member of the Hong Kong women’s chess team.

The team made history by winning the city’s first-ever Chess Olympiad competition in September. They beat 34 teams to claim victory.

She also won a title at the tournament: Woman Candidate Master. It is the International Chess Federation’s fourth-highest title for female players.

“After being selected for the ... women’s team, I felt highly honoured,” Yuxin told Young Post.

“As the youngest player on the team, I do feel pressure, but I also have high expectations for myself. This ... recognises my chess skills [and] motivates me to continually push my limits.”

Where it all began

Yuxin’s chess journey started at age five, after watching her brother learn the game.

“[I] found it fascinating to see the pieces move on the board,” she said. “Playing chess brings me joy and boosts my confidence.”

She developed her skills quickly, winning the title of Chess Master of the Chinese Chess Association at the age of seven.

“My success in chess comes from a combination of passion and persistence,” said Yuxin, who attends a chess academy weekly. She also practises by herself daily for one to two hours.

The journey to success

Yuxin participated in the Hong Kong Chess Championships 2024, finishing in third place. This locked in her spot on the women’s team for the 45th Chess Olympiad. “The tension and excitement were hard to describe,” she said.

Yuxin shared that she was very nervous playing against masters in the Chess Olympiad. Still, she felt the chance to represent Hong Kong at such a big competition was an honour.

Yuxin was happy to share tips for those looking for success. “Study games from various players to [improve] your opening strategies and endgame skills,” she said. “Practise to improve your quick thinking and [strategy].”

Her final advice was to stay calm because “your mindset can determine your success or failure”.

Quiz time

Stop and think: Not only did Yuxin help win the very first Chess Olympiad championship for Hong Kong, but she also got the title of Woman Candidate Master. Additionally, she was the youngest player on the team at only 12 years old.

Think about it: Yuxin felt some pressure as the youngest player on the team. However, setting high expectations for her performance made her feel motivated to do well.

Consider: Yuxin recommends people study other players’ performances to improve their own starting strategies and endgame skills. She also says people should work on calming their minds during a game.