I’m excited to announce the launch of the Dublin Go League! This will be a fantastic opportunity for the Go enthusiasts to compete in an EGF Class A tournament, held in person, following the same tournament format as the Confucius Cup, but with longer time frames — each round lasting 2 weeks.
Tournament Details
- Format: 5 rounds of McMahon (or 3 rounds, depending on the number of participants)
- Time Control: 1 hour main time, 5x 30 second byo-yomi
- Rules: Japanese rules, with a komi of 6.5
- Handicap: Difference in McMahon Score minus 1
- Tie-breakers: Direct comparison, SOS, then SOSOS
Provisional Schedule
Each round will last 2 weeks, giving players time to arrange and play their games in person. Games must be played live, either during club meetings or via other arrangements. A clock must be used for every game.
- Round 1: Mon 21 October – Sun 3 November
- Round 2: Mon 4 November – Sun 17 November
- Round 3: Mon 18 November – Sun 1 December
- Round 4: Mon 2 December – Sun 15 December
- Round 5: Mon 16 December – Sun 12 January 2025
Alternatively, if the number of participants is too low, we will play 3 rounds, each lasting slightly over 2 weeks.
- Round 1: Mon 21 October – Wed 6 November
- Round 2: Thurs 7 November – Sun 24 November
- Round 3: Mon 25 November – Wed 11 December
Communication
The Dublin channel on Discord will be used for:
- Announcement of the pairings on the start day of each round.
- Players must report their game schedules once arranged to ensure clock rentals can be prepared.
- The winner must report the game result (So, you’d better join the IGA Discord Server).
- Notify any missing rounds (e.g., exams, travel or etc) before the pairing of the next round.
Unplayed Games
- If any games remain unplayed by the end of each round and it’s determined to be your fault (e.g., no-shows), you will lose the game and receive a yellow card.
- A second yellow card will result in immediate removal from the league.
- If both players are deemed equally responsible (e.g., both were unable to agree on a time), the game will be voided and removed from the tournament system.
Participation
- Free Entry: Available to all members of the Irish Go Association.
- Open to all players: Even those outside Dublin can enter, but note that you must travel to Dublin to play your games in person.
Registration
- The registration is now open via this Google form.
- Closes: 6pm, Sunday 20th October (Smithfield Special Day – Don’t forget to register this too)
- Pairings for Round 1 available by: 10am, Monday 21th October
- Registration during the league is possible, however, your pairing will only be made if there is an even number of players.
Join us for a competitive and fun season of Live Go! For any questions, please contact league@irish-go.org.