Li Zhe, Professional 6 dan
Chinese Weiqi Association
One of the top pros from China, Li Zhe, began playing Weiqi at age 8, achieving 1P in 2000. He joined the China National Weiqi Team in 2002 and reached 6p in 2007. Li's accolades include winning the Chinese New Player of Weiqi title in 2006, a Bronze medal at the 2008 World Mind Sports Games, MVP of the China Weiqi A League in 2010, and champion of the China Ryusei Weiqi championship in 2011. He also made the final four in the LG Cup World Go Competition in 2013 and the Xinao Cup World Weiqi Open in 2017.
Li Zhe is currently an Associate Professor of philosophy at Wuhan University, blending intellectual and strategic excellence in both academia and Weiqi.
Michael Chen, Professional 1 dan
American Go Association
North America’s most newly minted pro -- at least until the end of this week, when the 2024 NAGF Pro Qualification Tournament produces the latest N.A. pro -- Michael Chen achieved 1P in the 2023 NA Qualifier after 25 years of dedication to the game. As both the newest pro and the oldest by qualification age, he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that he is eager to share with the Go community.
Michael's extensive amateur career includes playing against top pros in the 2014 Samsung Cup. His Go adventures continue on his Pro Fox account (zchenmike) and his Twitch and YouTube channels, where his passion for the game shines through.
Beyond the board, Michael works as a financial advisor in New Jersey, blending his strategic skills from Go into his professional life.