15 Facts About Masao Kato

Masao Kato Honorary Oza, known as Kato Kensei, was a Japanese professional go player.

Masao Kato became the second player to reach 1,200 career wins, behind Rin Kaiho.

Masao Kato is the author of The Chinese Opening: The Sure-Win Strategy and Masao Kato's Attack and Kill.

Masao Kato joined Kitani Minoru's go dojo in 1959, quickly becoming friends with Ishida Yoshio.

In 1964, Masao Kato passed the pro exam at age seventeen.

Masao Kato began qualifying for tournaments early on in his professional career.

Masao Kato made the Honinbo league in 1968 as a 4 dan, a feat unheard of at the time.

Masao Kato was unable to progress past the group stages and was relegated.

Masao Kato was known as the "Killer" for his attacking style.

Masao Kato finished runner-up eight times before winning his first titles, the Gosei and Judan, in 1976.

Masao Kato went on to win 46 total titles, fourth most in Japan behind Cho Chikun, Sakata Eio and Kobayashi Koichi.

At one point, Masao Kato held four of the top 7 titles: Meijin, Oza, Judan and Gosei.

Masao Kato was elected president of the Nihon Ki-in and International Go Federation in early 2004.

Masao Kato increased komi from 5.5 points to 6.5 points and shortened thinking time.

Later in the year, Masao Kato fell ill and was hospitalized.