Associating humor and bridge might be a foreign concept to many. This is a serious game and everyone concentrates very hard. Lots of frowny faces and knitted eyebrows. But those things are not because people of grumpy or mean. They often are a result of concentration. Well….I can tell you that concentrating can have a different look. Here’s my story.

My partner and I played in the Gold Rush events at the High Desert Regional in May in Redmond Oregon. What a great place to enjoy good bridge and good friends with beautiful mountains surrounding us. In that gorgeous environment, we had a funny experience that I will share with you.

Early in the week, we were playing along in the Gold Rush. Everyone was courteous to one another….well almost everyone. 🙂 There was one hand where we trumped our Opponent’s Ace, and he was surprised. In a good-natured way, he said “That’s rude!” Our reply was “Why, thank you!” Much laughter followed.

That little exchange was overheard, and it started to catch on with others. Before the end of the tournament, you could hear “That’s rude! Why, thank you!” popping up in many places.

The moral of this little story is that bridge is a GAME. Yes, many of us want to play well, win Master Points, and progress on our journey to Life Master. But having HUMOR as part of the game can help us relax and enjoy each moment at the table.

I hope everyone finds their own way to bring humor and joy to your game.

Susie Leo
District 20 I/N Coordinator