Bridge players are becoming increasingly like professional footballers these days – the off-season is getting shorter and shorter, with little time to recharge the batteries, or to wait until we can start enjoying our bridge fix again, depending on how you look at it.
First up, the closing date for the annual Pre-Qualifier Trials (aimed at players with fewer than 100 National Points who would like to try to qualify for either the Lady Milne or Camrose Trials later in the season) is next Friday, 7 August. Entries should be sent to info@cbai.ie. A reminder that a bursary for coaching with a top Irish player forms part of the prize for the four qualifying pairs.
The first event for the 2026/27 season is the Boyne Valley Bridge Bash, in Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim over the weekend of 22/23 August. You’ll find full details here, and all are welcome. Following on from last year’s very successful one-day event, organiser Nicola O’Dowd is now offering both pairs and teams events, with graded sections. So there will be an event to suit your preference and your level. Pre-entry is required.
Next is the first “major” of the new season, the Duais an Uachtarain (President’s Prize), in the Mount Wolseley Hotel in Tullow over the weekend of 19/20 September (three sessions). This event is open to Masters and Intermediate As, and entries should be made via the CBAI website. We are hoping for a large turnout to support our new national President, George Ryan.
The Northern Ireland Bridge Union has announced the schedule for its 2026/27 Online Leagues, and CBAI members are welcome to enter. In a change from last year, matches will be played on various weeknights, apart from Friday. Last season’s fixed night caused difficulties for some due to repeated clashes with their regular club nights. There is an Open (referred to as “Senior”, but with no age restrictions) and an Intermediate League. You’ll find more information here, and entries can be made here. The closing date for entries is 13 September.
We have begun updating the list of bridge classes for 2026/27 on our website. If you are a CBAI-accredited teacher planning classes, please let us have the details (to info@cbai.ie) and we will be happy to promote your classes. If you know anyone interested in taking up bridge, or in improving their game, you’ll find details of the classes available. In a new departure, the CBAI is offering gift vouchers (for amounts in multiples of €50) which you can give to a friend or family member to encourage them to take up the game, and which they can redeem against the cost of their classes, with the teacher returning the vouchers to the CBAI to receive payment. An ideal way to incentivise someone to take up our great game.
Finally, moving overseas, the 60th Isle of Man Congress will take place from 4-6 September in Douglas, Isle of Man. A number of Irish players have been attending this event in recent years, and the feedback is good. Doubtless the organisers will be pulling out all the stops for the diamond jubilee. You’ll find full details here.