John

A Calculator Skill Over the Board

John O’Hagan is a towering figure in the world of backgammon, renowned for his exceptional calculation skill over the board, strategic prowess, and unwavering dedication to the game. With over four decades of experience under his belt, John’s journey from eager novice to revered teacher and competitor is a testament to his enduring passion and relentless pursuit of excellence.

For more than a decade, John has been a cornerstone of the Backgammon Learning Center, where he has honed his craft as a teacher and mentor. Through his insightful instruction, personalized guidance, and unwavering support, he has empowered countless students to unlock their full potential and achieve mastery in the game. His commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment has earned him widespread acclaim and admiration within the
backgammon community.

John’s list of accomplishments reads like a roll call of backgammon royalty. From his remarkable 2nd place finish in the prestigious Monte Carlo tournament in 2005 to his dominance on the American Backgammon Tour (ABT), where he has clinched victory in over a dozen events, #2 player on the ABT 2010, winning the ABT points race for 2023, 4th in all time ABT points, winning the prestigious 2024 Longhorn Jackpot, and the PR winner of the 2024 USA UBC tournament, John’s track record speaks for itself. His impressive standing as the top-ranked player in the World Backgammon Federation (WBGF) player ranking list, #1 in the Howard Ring Memorial Quiz and his esteemed position as the #10 Giant of Backgammon underscore his unparalleled stature in the global backgammon arena.

Having retired from professional play, John now dedicates his time to both playing and teaching backgammon, drawing upon his vast experience and expertise to inspire the next generation of players.