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1ST INT’L MIND SPORTS GAMES SET FOR ‘O8 IN CHINA: The First International Mind Sport Games will be held in Beijing in October, 2008, reports Roy Laird, Chairman of the AGA Board of Directors. Calling it “An Olympics for mental competition,” Laird tells the EJ that “The concept became a reality on September 26, when International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) President Jose Damiani announced that the four IMSA members (Go, Bridge, Chess, Draughts), along with Xiang-Qi (Chinese Chess), will hold the first ever World Mind Sports Games (WMSG) from October 3 through 18, 2008 in Beijing,” which will have just hosted the Olympic games a few weeks before. This will be the first such international mind sport competition under General Association of International Sports Federation (GAISF) auspices. “GAISF works closely with the Olympics movement, but don't expect to see go being played between ice skating and gymnastics on Wide World of Sports,” says Laird. “Instead, a parallel set of competitions is evolving, through the recently formed International Mind Sports Association.” It is expected that more than 2,500 players from over 100 countries will compete in 25 to 30 medal events in the WMSG. In addition to individual events, team and pair competitions will be also be held. “Through the International Mind Sport Games, more people will become aware of the value and joy of mental competition,” says Laird, who promises that “American players will be there! But we're going to need your help. The American Go Foundation is seeking sponsors who would like to support the 2008 US go team with a tax-deductible donation. Your employer might also appreciate the opportunity to support such a historic event.” To help the AGA send a team to this historic competition, write agf@usgo.org .