For this meeting, Nippon Television's announcer Ms Mika Takanishi acted as the master of ceremonies again this year. She is a Go fan and likes to play Go herself.

First, Mr. Ichiro Yoshikuni, Chairman of the Japan Pair Go Association, made an address on behalf of the organizers.

Mr. Yoshikuni continued to keep an eye on the Go circle for many years during the Showa era since the prewar days when the Nihon Ki-in was located in Tameike, Tokyo.

Based on such experience, Mr. Yoshikuni commented on the present Go circle that is becoming increasingly international, and referred to the role of Go.

"I hear that in the U.S. and European countries, pair Go is always played together with ordinary Go in every Go event. Pair Go might have been more deeply rooted as a game in Western countries than in Japan."

It is usual for a man and woman as a couple to participate in various activities in Western nations, where pair Go seems to play an important role in spreading Go.

Mr. Yoshikuni concluded his speech by expressing his views about this championship, "Scenes of 32 top pro players competing with one another at a place will impress amateur Go fans. I hope there will be many exciting matches as well as interesting game records."

Next, Mr. Hiroshi Hamada, Chairman of the sponsor Ricoh Co., Ltd. and Chairman of the Tournament Executive Committee, delivered a speech.

"This is the memorable 10th anniversary of this event. Looking at the list of the participants, I feel that it consists of half veteran big names and half young, promising players. They are truly the best pro members. I look forward to the fascinating all-star games."