It was so good to be able to be back hosting a full Christmas Tournament at Rotorua this year, with players coming from many North Island clubs to enjoy the day. There were 24 tables, and we had a great day’s bridge and socialising.
As always, the success owed a lot to hard-working members of the club who gave their time generously – in particular Wendy Fraser and her team in the kitchen, organisers Alan Dick and Colleen Allen and assistant director Heini Lux, aka Santa. Our director Norman Silcock and scorer Jan Spaans also ensured the day ran smoothly. The beautifully decorated clubrooms and the bright and festive garb of many of the players also added to the fun atmosphere. And of course the delicious meal at the end of play was a highlight.
First and second placings were a two-way battle between Blair Fisher/Jo Simpson and Liz Fisher/Sam Simpson, both of whom scored over 70% in the morning! Despite Liz and Sam scoring 62.5 in the afternoon, Blair and Jo outdid them and won the bragging rights with another 70% in the afternoon. As an innovation this year, prizes were awarded in 3 different grades, according to players’ combined rating points, which was a very popular move, and allowed players of varied experience levels to be among the prizewinners.
