FAQ
 
 

World Scene

  • Why Play Go?
  • Go can be played all year round.
  • It can be played by all ages (5 to 95)
  • It can be played by both sexes.
  • It is inexpensive. Board and stones last a lifetime.
  • Between a stronger player and a weaker player the handicap system makes the game even.
  • It is fun. Even when you lose.
  • It fosters friendship.
  • It transcends cultures and different language.
  • It develops the power to make rational decisions.
  • It develops analytic ability.
  • It combines analtic and intuitive skills.
  • It can be played on the internet.
  • It doesn't disturb others.
  • It takes little space.
  • It has infinite challenge.
  • There are excellent books to challenge one.
  • You learn the rules quickly. They are simple.
  • It develops patience and respect for others.

 

  • How many Go players are there in the world?

In Korea about 70% of males know how to play go. Go is very strong in Japan, China, Taiwan. In Europe it is not so widely known but is growing. Probably most major cities have at least one Go club. In Japan Go is taught in public schools. Governments promote Go through the promotion of professional Go associations.

In North America it is growing but less well known. Probably there are at least 40-50 Go clubs in Canada.

  • Why haven't I heard about Go before?

There is little demand. Growth is slow but steady. Also, North American culture avoids activities that cannot be mastered quickly and are not promoted on TV.

  • Who is the strongest player in the world?

Probably, Lee Chang Ho, a Korean. However, many young professionals are constantly challenging the regning champions for the limelight. Lee was number one at age 18.

  • Who is the current World Go champion?

There are lot of World Go championships every year, so it's difficult to answer this question.

  • What is a professional player?

Professionals earn their living at Go just like a professional golfer in the USA. They teach, play in tournaments, seen on TV, etc. The top ones are wealthy. The lower ones struggle a bit just like sports heros in the west. There are a few professionals resident in Canada and the USA.

  • Who is insei?

Insei is someone who studies Go a lot and wants to reach professional level. They have Insei Leagues in China, Korea and Japan. An insei's level is usually very high. The weakest Korean inseis are usually stronger than an AGA 7-8 dan. There is also Korean-style insei league online open for 10k players and stronger.

  • How are players ranked?

Professionals are ranked from 1 dan to 9 dan (top rank). Relatively very few make it to the top.

Amateurs are ranked on a different scale. In North America, Japan and most other countries beginners are ranked from 30 kyu to 1 kyu. After 1 kyu the rank of 1 dan (shodan) or first degree black belt is conferred. Then the progression is up to 6 or even 7 dan. A 7 dan amateur is probably equivalent to a lower ranked professional.

  • How long does it take to get good at Go?

How long does it take to become wise? A lifetime perhaps.

Good is a relative term but typically one can advance to 20 kyu in a week. From there the path to 9 kyu may take a year for some or as little as two or three months for others. The path to shodan is slower, requiring study and practice. However, some achieve shodan in say 2 or 3 years and that would be considered good progress.

Go is an activity to be enjoyed. That is the important thing. If you enjoy it you will get stronger at your own pace.

  • How do I find my Go rank?

If you are 15-kyu or stronger, you can pass this free test and get your rank estimation at the end: http://play.baduk.org/

  • Can you play Go on the internet?

Yes, players all over the world play on the internet. They rank from beginners to professional levels. This is one main reason for the growth of strong players among amateurs. Without good competition it is difficult to progress. Two beginners on an island would probably remain at a low beginner level after 10 years of playing each other. In fact, it is essential to be exposed to proper technique to avoid developing bad habits at an early stage.

  • Where can I learn more about Go servers and top players on these servers?

Go Sensations has daily updated sections about the biggest Go servers.

Go and Computers

  • Can computers play Go?

Yes. However, the best computer software is probably no better than about 5 kyu in strength. This is far below 1 dan amateur. The reason for this is that there are so many options and subtleties in Go that it defies computer analysis. This however does not deter the Go programmers from trying. Every year the programs get a little stronger.

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In fact, there are annual tournaments that match the best computer programs against each other.

Go in Edmonton

  • Are there other clubs in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada?

In Alberta, there are clubs in Calgary and Lethbridge.

  • How long has Go been in Edmonton?

Go has been organized in Edmonton since 1965. The first Go Club was the University of Alberta Go Club formed by Chuck Elliott, a physics graduate student in the Institute of Theoretical Physics.

Equipment

  • Can you play on a smaller board size?

Yes, beginners typically start out on a 9 x 9 board rather than the standard 19 x 19.

13 x 13 size boards are also common.

  • What are the stones made of?

Sabaki uses only glass stones. Cheaper sets are made of plastic. Very expensive sets are made from shell (white) and slate (black).

  • What does a Go set cost?

Sabaki sells good quality sets of glass stones and 1/2 inch board for under $75.00. The board has 19 x 19 on one side and 13 x 13 on the other. A 9 x 9 paper board is included. Members get a discount. Go sets are difficult to find locally. They can also be purchased on the internet.

Sabaki sells a complete range of Go books. They are brought to the club on the first Tuesday and the first Saturday of the month. If you are not a member simply contact us to verify stock level. See the price list.

Sabaki Go Club

  • What does it cost to be a member of the Sabaki Go Club?
  • Annual membership - $75.00
  • 6 month membership - $50.00
  • 3 month membership - $30.00

Daily drop in fee for non members - $5.00/day

The first visit is free to non members and guests.

Tea is served daily and is free.

  • How many members does Sabaki have?

End of 2005 - 40 members

  • Are there any young players under 10?

Yes, Alice is 8 years (2005) old and is about 4 kyu in strength.

  • What do lessons cost?

There are usually short instruction sessions at the beginning of meeting times that last about 40 minutes. There is no charge.

The stronger players will also provide helpful commentaries on games free of charge. All players are encouraged to help coach new comers.

  • Does Sabaki host tournaments?

Yes, usually 2 per year.

  • Can anyone join Sabaki?

Yes.