One of the largest Go tournaments held in Kelowna in recent years took place on May 30, as 23
players gathered for the 2026 Kelowna Spring Go Rating Tournament.
The strong turnout reflected the continued growth of the game in British Columbia's Okanagan region. Players ranging from experienced competitors to newer students competed in five rounds of play, creating a friendly but competitive atmosphere throughout the day.
Kevin Wang (5k) claimed first place, followed by Leo Tao (8k) in second and Andy Pang (10k) in third. Cameron Liu (10k), George Gu (12k), and Jiyan Zhang (14k) rounded out the top six. No player finished undefeated.
Four players earned Excellence Awards with 4–1 records: Leo Tao, Jiyan Zhang, Sean Ming Thin (15k), and Enzo Song (19k). Ten additional players received Merit Awards for finishing with 3–2 records.
The organizers thanked Super 8 by Wyndham Kelowna for providing the tournament venue. Additional support was provided by the City of Kelowna, The Dragon King Restaurant, Rollingdale Winery, The Luxe Spa, and several other local businesses.
According to the organizers, support from community partners continues to help promote the growth of Go in the Okanagan and provide opportunities for players of all ages to participate in organized competition.
—Yao Shen
Photo: Top six finishers at the 2026 Kelowna Spring Go Rating Tournament (left to right): Kevin Wang (5k), Jiyan Zhang (14k), Andy Pang (10k), Leo Tao (8k), George Gu (12k), and Cameron Liu (10k); Excellence Award winners with 4–1 records (left to right): Sean Ming Thin (15k), Leo Tao (8k), Jiyan Zhang (14k), and Enzo Song (19k); Participants in the 2026 Kelowna Spring Go Rating Tournament; Tournament action at the Super 8 by Wyndham Kelowna; Tournament poster featuring Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains of Kelowna, British Columbia.