Joanne Missingham

From go.org.nz

Joanne Missingham is a rising star on the Australasian Go horizon, winning the Toyota & Denso Cup at age 13 in 2008.

[edit] Background

Born to Australian and Taiwanese parents, Joanne moved to Taiwan at age three, and started Go at age six. She currently lives in San Diego, USA.

[edit] July 2008

[edit] First intimation of success

Joanne (age 13) may become the first professional player from Australia. She is currently playing in the Chinese women's professional qualifying tournament; according to news received on 21 July:

"Now the tornament has passed 10 round. Joanne is the only one won 9 games. 4 other girls are 8 wins. The last round will be on the day after tomorrow. If Joanne wins, she will be qualified as a pro. If she lose, the result will be hard to say. However, she is very close to success now."

[edit] Conclusion

Received 23 July

"This is really a historic day for Australian Go. Joanne Missingham, a 14 yo girl born in Brisbane, has "climbed Everest" by passing the tough Chinese Pro Exam for Women. Joanne becomes the very first ever Australian citizen to achieve this high goal.

"Joanne moved to Taiwan at an early age, and learned go at age six.. Two years later she passed the 1 dan milestone. Despite her other time consuming interests of gymnastics and swimming, Joanne progressed in go, and in 2006 became the Taiwan Female National Champion.

"In 2004 she moved to San Diego with her family, and was without a go teacher. She continued to play on the internet and achieved 9 dan rankings on TOM and IGS, playing as Jia Jia (her "Chinese" name is Hei Jia Jia).

"I personally congratulate Joanne on her achievement and also offer congratulations on behalf of the Australian Go community.

"We are looking forward to following Joanne's career and hope that she may have some future involvement in Australian go."

John Hardy

[edit] See also

• Elsewhere in this wiki: Search other pages for mention