21 May 2009 No Comments

Melbourne Go Lovers Club

On the evening of Thursday 14th May 2009 I paid a visit to the Melbourne Go Lovers club, currently convened by James Kaaden. This group was previously convened by Chizuko Katanaya, with a change necessitated by ill health.

Melbourne Go Lovers, Thursday 14 May

Melbourne Go Lovers, Thursday 14 May

The club meets at a large private residence and usually attracts about six players. The playing fee is $5 and some delicious snack food, coffee or tea, and wine are provided. The club maintains a small library of go books which may be borrowed by regulars. It seems to be a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere, but the go games are just as intense as in the most important tournament.

Shimada-san at Melbourne Go Lovers

Shimada-san at Melbourne Go Lovers

I met some old campaigners – Shimada-san and Bao Nguyen were there, both of whom have played at AGA events in the past. James Kaaden is a young man with an interest in go administration as well as playing, and we will see more of him in the future.

John Hardy

by John Hardy in Visiting Tags: ,

21 May 2009 No Comments

SPGo Visit

On Friday 15th May 2009 I visited the SPGo club at the Melbourne University. A tram ride up town brought back old memories. The Alice Hoy Building was easy to find, and soon after 1pm large numbers of go players filled the lecture room. There were about 14 players, including Anna, one of the leaders in the club.

Pretty soon everyone had paired off, and I found myself playing Shiny from Shanghai, who said she was 15 kyu. I don’t think so! After a long drawn out battle, during which Shiny parried all my best blows and overplays, I found myself fifteen plus points behind and therefore resigned.

This being a university club, it is no surprise to note that all members are quite young. Most were of Asian background, and there was a good mix of males and females. Everyone seemed very keen, and the AGA can dream about getting such a large group to join in our activities.

by John Hardy in Visiting Tags: ,