Jose Damiani
IMSA president

President's message

2008 was a momentous year as, for the first time, the first World Mind Sport Games were staged in Beijing, under the auspices of the International Mind Sports Association. Our four member Federations, Bridge, Chess, Draughts and Go were joined on this occasion by Xianqi and a truly memorable and exciting Championship resulted.

Our colleagues China rose magnificently to the challenge of staging such a large event, which was held in venues previously utilised for the 2008 Olympic Games. It was a wonderful experience for us to be lodged within the Olympic Complex, close to the icons of the games, the Birds Nest Stadium and the Water Cube.

Of course there were some problems – organising an event of this type for the first time will inevitably throw up unforeseen difficulties - but nevertheless I believe that we achieved a fantastic event especially with the enormous financial help we provided.

I am sure those of you who were there will remember hearing the IMSA Anthem for the first time at the Opening Ceremony, and the flag bearers from all the countries represented in Beijing entering the packed stadium, followed by a great dance show.

It was an unforgettable start to these great Championships.

There were several thousand players competing in the various Championship events. We all congratulate the winners of course, but also those who did not win, as in the true Olympian Spirit, they recognise that it is taking part that is more important.

There was so much publicity for these Championships – they were televised, and you can click here to download the programme files.

I would like to take this opportunity of thanking a few people – in particular the Chinese Organising Committee for all that they did to ensure the success of this wonderful event. To my colleagues within IMSA for their support, their friendship and their solidarity. To all those who worked with IMSA and the individual Mind Sports Federations before, during and after the event. And to the many National Organisations from all the sports, and players who supported the event and came with your enthusiasm to create a new and exciting Championship. Without you our work is worthless and it is because of you that we all work to a great future in Mind Sports.

2009 will be a difficult year for all of us. The economic pressures will be great but I am sure we will all do our best to ensure that, especially perhaps for our young players – the future of our game – the downturn doesn’t affect their future within their chosen sport. We will all do our best to ensure that costs are kept to a minimum, the economies are made so that we can continue to promote Mind Sports and build on our past success.

I am pleased to have the opportunity of wishing all of you a very Happy New Year!