Andy Liu and Gansheng Shi become North America’s first pro Go players

August 4, 2012 became a momentous day for Go in the Western world when North America certified its first home grown professional Go players.

16 players compete to go pro

Starting on July 30, 16 top amateurs from the USA and Canada met to compete in a double elimination tournament, titled the AGA-Tygem Pro Finals, to decide whom among them would be the first American pros.

After a week of play in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Andy Liu and Gansheng Shi prevailed, earning professional certification and a promotion to 1p (1 dan professional).

From left, Gansheng Shi (1 dan), Allan Abramson, Jeff Shaevel, Myungwan Kim (9 dan) and Andy Liu (1 dan). Photo: Chris Garlock, American Go Association.

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