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After a short break, the ceremony was started.
From Ichiro Yoshikuni, the honorary chairman, the certificate, the trophy and prize of 5,000,000yen were presented to the winner, Ayumi Suzuki 3dan and U Cho Meijin Oza pair.
Then, to Izumi Kobayashi the Strongest Woman Player and Keigo Yamashita 9dan pair who came second, the certificate, trophy and prize of 1,000,000 yen were presented. |
The players went back to their seat and Hideo Otake, the chief judge, gave a speech.
Mr. Otake said, `I came here for the 1st and the 2nd round but today, there are a few professionals (because of the final), I was worried what would happen. But many people came to see the game. Thank you very much.’ He said with appreciation and continued.
`By the end of March, I will be able to meet the helthy baby (of Cho U and Izumi Kobayashi). I’m looking forward to what kind of professional player the baby will be (laugh).’ He made everyone laugh and concluded.
`From now on, please look forward to the tournaments.’ He bowed to the audience. |
The ceremony finished. Only the winners were left on the stage and as the last event, the lottery of the guessing winner was held.
There were 515 votes and 212 people were correct. 10 people among 212 people received Ricoh pocket watches from Cho Meijin Oza and Suzuki 3dan. |
Soon, the lottery was finished and the winners were supposed to leave with applause but U Cho Meijin and Ayumi Suzuki 3dan were asked to have their picture taken with fans while the stage was taken a way and till the end they were signing autographs.
Congratulations, Ayumi Suzuki 3dan and U Cho Meijin Oza. |
[ In addition ]
Expectant Izumi Kobayashi the Strongest Woman Player went home by taxi and U Cho Meijin Oza, Keigo Yamashita 9dan and Ayumi Suzuki 3dan went to attend a party with people who are concerned with the tournament.
At the usual speech of the winner for a toast, Cho Meijin said, `I was actually losing but I was lucky at the end. It was as if the opponents let us win so I’m a bit scared (of Izumi) after Izumi san went home (wry smile). I will do my best with massage for about a week.’ He made everyone laugh.
Suzuki 3dan said, `In the contents of the game, there are only a few good situations, but I hope you enjoyed the climax. Thank you.’
Cho Meijin said, `I thank you all and I enjoyed the tournament very much.’ |
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