The IBSA World Games for visually impaired athletes have kicked off in Birmingham, England.

The para chess players test their strength in the first matches of the IBSA Games. More than 20 athletes from different countries are fighting for victory in “mental gymnastics”, consisting of 7 rounds.

In the first round, Uzbekistan’s Akhadkhan Kimsanboyev played against his rival from Romania Mihai Bursuc, and won.

Another player from Uzbekistan Rayhona Sharapova, played with white pieces against the experienced Czech chess player Palomar Jose. The game ended in a draw.

The games will run until August 27.

T.Ruziyev, UzA