“Bridge has all the excitement of war and only 10% of the risk.”

The author of this quote has obviously never played bridge with Denise Nordengen as the 10% would have been dramatically increased.

I must also congratulate Paul Mestern who has reached the stages of a Grand Master. His name was inexplicably left off my last blog.

Communication has been sent to all the Unions that all members playing more than three times at affiliated clubs are required to be affiliated. The Committee specifically considered the issue of “swallows” from overseas and would expect the Clubs to show some discretion.

That being said, it is necessary for the SABF to be seen to be putting back into the Clubs so they can clearly see the benefit. The Unions have been invited to put forward proposals with respect to seminars given by the top players. We also intend to provide tournament directing seminars. Heidi Atkinson has been invited to attend the World Mind Games as an observer and I am sure, we will be able to benefit from the knowledge she acquires.

The teams representing South Africa in the Mind Olympics are as follows:

Open Team

Alon Apteker and Craig Gower

Neville Eber and Chris Bosenberg

Robert Stephens and Larry Chemaly (Captain)

Ladies

Captain: Helen Kruger

Charmaine Lipschitz and Rene Kenne  

Marina Breytenbach and Ros Factor

Maureen Narunsky and Joy Swiel   

Seniors

Captain: Roz Bernstein

Gordon and Kathy Driver

Val Bloom and Tas Nastoridis

Nellonia Vorster and Jackie Dorfan

We wish the teams the best of luck!

On Wednesday, 18^th July, Carol Grunder and Sam Samjee will be representing South African Bridge at SASCOC’s gala dinner.

Congratulations to Craig Gower and Alon Apteker for winning the Sun City Tournament. Further congratulations to Lex and his team for a well run and enjoyable event (except the machines!).

In considering to take the position as president, Di Adrain assured me that I would be able to issue decrees such “no more egg sandwiches”. Catering time can be put to far better use.