From: Larry Kaufman <lkaufman <at> WIZARD <dot> NET>
Date: 13 sep 2000
Subject: Computer's rating

     I just learned that one of the top (if not the top) shogi programs has
a well-established rating on "ShogiDojo".  It is "Kanazawashogi".  Its
rating is 1941, in the lower part of the three dan range.  Since ShogiDojo
Dan ranks run close to two ranks below most Japanese club and western
ranks, it would appear to be in the range of strong 4 Dan to weak 5 Dan by
normal standards, even allowing for the possibility that many of the games
could have been played at the fast time limit (basically, 30" byoyomi
only).  Impressive!
     Of course we have no way of knowing whether the program is playing
totally without human assistance, though I have no reason to suspect it of
getting aid.
     If the programs get a bit stronger, would they qualify for the
Shoreikai?  After all, they certainly meet the youthful age conditions!

     Larry Kaufman