26th June 2009  
Dear Members,

This time last year I was reflecting how travel costs were 
rising and made the off the wall comment that such a rise, 
necessary to heal the world's climate troubles, may affect 
Go events in the future.

However I did not expect the economy to turn bad and the 
EGF's finances to end up in a jam. A long period of stability
in the EGF ended when the Ing Foundation announced they could
not pay any support in 2009, which made me scream as we had 
already committed to the 2009 EYGC and Ing Cup, since we had of 
course expected to get it.

I hope you will be happy with the proposal to increase membership 
rates, the first increase since the change to the euro in 1999.

Anyway the last year saw the first World Mind Sports Games, 
which really was a thriller. When folk said "will you be 
there?" (despite a view that said I had got to be there), 
I decided that I had to stay at home to provide the essential
office function during the Games. Of course another part of me
wished I was part of the large Go community that had come 
together in Beijing. I am sure those who were there will say 
the two weeks was gone too soon and they would remember the 
time in China for ever. 

A lot of questions were being asked about the President: Who 
is it? Why isn't he here? This is a natural consequence of 
devolving International matters to Martin as Vice-President and
allowing Erik to continue his work as we're almost there in terms
of Olympic status. 

It seems appropriate for international matters to take centre 
stage as we move into the next decade, so it is entirely 
appropriate for Martin to take on the job of President. 
The Olympic organisation often say they don't care about us, 
but Martin will help tackle this attitude and beat it.

Anyway rather than leave me alone in the closet, you have 
nominated me for Secretary. The way you make me feel is 
honoured to be supported in this way and I will reluctantly 
take on this job if you so desire. 

Remember, whether playing black or white, to keep playing Go 
and as for promoting Go as a sport, don't stop till you get 
enough recognition in your country. 

Best Go Wishes
AJAx 
EGF President 2001-2009.