A bridge too far? We think not! ♠️♥️♦️♣️

By Colin Ford

When I was in my 20s I learnt to play basic bridge from a friend’s grandmother. There were four of us from two households who learnt together and we started a tradition of “end of the month” bridge. We would get together on the night before payday with whatever food we had in our respective homes, cook a meal, drink a bottle of wine, and play bridge until late in the evening.

Sadly, that tradition ended some years ago, but recently I rediscovered the joy of bridge playing with Carel and his very accomplished friends, both online and in real life. I must admit it’s become something of an addiction.

And it’s not just for old ladies! Within the past few months a number of our mates – notably Michele Katz, Jocelyn Katz, Peter Jordan and Stephen de Meyer – have joined our bridge circle, which has expanded rather nicely! #makethecirclebigger

One of the great things about bridge is the amount of help that’s available to players at all levels. One of our favourite bridge teachers is Carol Stanton, who runs a number of courses for beginners as well as more advanced players. There’s a six-week beginners’ course starting on Friday, 25 March. The cost to attend all six weekly lessons is R250, which includes your own copy of Paul Marston’s excellent book, ‘Introduction to Bridge’. Carol also provides “cheat sheets” for beginners learning to bid.

“Feedback from those who have attended the course so far has  been very positive and the courses have been oversubscribed,” says Carol. “We encourage anyone who might be interested in learning our wonderful game to join us!”

Lessons take place online from 10am to 12.30pm every Friday for six weeks, starting on 25 March.

Remember, there are also courses for more advanced players. So if you’re interested in a refresher, let Carol know and she’ll find the course that’s perfect for you.

To enrol, or for more information, contact Carol Stanton on carolstantonbridge@gmail.com.

Colin is our resident wordsmith. He can write absolutely anything and loves to read, too. He even has his own book club.