Xuanxuan Qijing Problem 20: Black to play and win the capturing race
玄玄棋经 · Problem 20 of 347 · First-line tesuji in a capturing race
Two black stones and two white stones are racing. Extending is only the start: look for a move on the first line that takes away White's eye, then make one of your own.
How to solve it
Black's two stones at G17 and H17 are in a capturing race with White's stones at E17 and F17. Black begins by extending to G18.
When White plays F19 on the first line, Black's E19 is the tesuji. White connects at E18, Black extends on the other side with J18, and after White's K18 Black makes an eye with H19. Black is one move ahead in the race.
If White blocks at F18 instead, Black plays F19, and after E18, J18 and White's K18 the move at C18 wins the race. If White answers G18 at E18, Black plays F19 and finishes with C18 and D19.
Main line
- 1. Black G18
- 2. White F19
- 3. Black E19
- 4. White E18
- 5. Black J18
- 6. White K18
- 7. Black H19
- 8. White K19
- 9. Black F18
Solution checked against Sensei's Library.
Play it out on the board
Place the stones yourself and see the refutation when you miss. All the Xuanxuan Qijing problems as quick lessons.