Mahjong in Europe
Reach’s success in Europe is down to the sheer dedication of its devotees.
It’s come a long way. Although I’m a relative newcomer to the European Mahjong scene, I’ve seen a lot of changes. I guess the most important for ReachMahjong.com is the rapid expansion of Reach Mahjong in Europe. When Jenn first started introducing me to Mahjong in Europe and the world, the predominant rule set was Chinese Official. Chinese Official is still the most widely played but Reach is getting there and there are increasingly more tournaments held in an increasing number of countries.
My first game in Europe was at the European Riichi Championship 2008 in Hannover. I was amazed at the number of people attending and it was my first chance to meet other Mahjong fans. It was a great experience. Although my experience playing in Asia hindered me in some respects as there were a lot of differences in playing style and mannerisms. Since then I have attended three other tournaments, each better than the last. I’ve formed friendships and now I eagerly await a new tournament on my calendar. It’s exactly how a hobby should be!
I am sad that I didn’t get to be there in the beginning. I feel my contribution to Mahjong is so insignificant when compared to those who actively participate in the European Mahjong Association and the founders of MahjongNews.com. I’m sure there are many others in clubs across Europe whose names I don’t even know that supported the founding of Mahjong in Europe. What these people built was a firm framework for Mahjong to grow and develop.
Mahjong is becoming more than a few people that meetup over their summer holidays. It’s far more than a group of internet friends – Things that may fizzle out over time. European Mahjong has a very bright future. Our player’s are going from strength to strength and even someone like myself, who is far from expert, can see that the skill of the European players is coming along in leaps and bounds.
The Riichi Seminar in Copenhagen this year is going to be another milestone for this wonderful progress. Although you can hear the muttered strategy conversations in the 15 minute breaks at tournaments, now we can bring our ideas and strategies into open debate. We can learn from each other and ultimately, take on the world!
Reach’s success in Europe is down to the sheer dedication of its devotees. The distances people are prepared to travel, the money that they are prepared to pay is amazing. And let’s not forget the organizers who devote huge amounts of their time and effort into organizing these tournaments. Every tournament I have attended in Europe, no matter how small or big, has been immensely enjoyable. I guess that’s where all the European Mahjong players are winning – We’re all having a great time!
