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With 168 players from 20 countries and 30 players younger than 15, this Jubilee tournament in Prague was a big success.
Organiser Vladimir Danek, happy to have so many participants and good sponsors, could be seen smiling almost all day – even though he was busy with the organisation and thus not able to play this time.
From the first round, many hard battles were seen on all boards – from the top to the bottom.
Also, in some cases, even the young players played more slowly and used more time than expected by most.
This years sponsors:
"Palírna U Zeleného stromu" or "GreenTree Distillery", purportedly the oldest distillery in Europe (founded in 1518), producer of Old Hunter's Whiskey.
"Sungwoo Hitech", automobile components manufacturer for Hyundai.
A K-pop dance group performed during the opening ceremony: their leader is Dita Vasova, a 1-kyu player.
Free tea provided by LuYu Tea and Mr. Tomas Bryl.
I had never seen so many young players in one tournament, apart from at the European Youth Championship.
All results can be found here.
After the Tournament I was able to have a short interview with the winner, Kim Dohyup 7d.
1. At what age did you start to play go?
At 6 years old, Korean age 8. I was born in 1993.
2. Who introduced you to the game?
My parents.
3. What are your goals with regards to go?
To participate in all the competitions around the world to promote the game. Before Corona, I often brought people from Korea and participated in competitions in Europe, Southeast Asia and so on with the goal of promoting go in the world.
4. Do you have a favourite top player from the past or present?
Lee Changho 9p.
5. Which Baduk player would you most like to talk to, if it were possible?
I don't think anything will change, even if I talk to a professional.
6. What would you like to ask him?
Apart from the sponsor who hosts the tournament, I would like to talk to the Korean Baduk Association Chairman.
7. Is there a player from the past or present you would like to play a game with?
I want to play against everyone in the world. At the request of their Go Association, there have been many times when professionals have played Go for free in Japan and Southeast Asia.
8. How do you like the tournaments in Europe?
I like them very much. Unlike the fierce competition at Korean tournaments, this seems like a tournament where everyone can simply enjoy go.
9. Will you stay longer in Europe, and do you plan to play more tournaments?
I have to travel back and forth from Korea each time, I can't stay long because I don't have enough money and or a place to stay. I want to participate in all the tournaments I can afford to attend. Starting this year, I've been introducing go overseas. I want to take a lot of people to 2022 EGC, but it seems that it is still difficult due to Corona. (testing regualtions etc.)
