A Bathurst social bridge club is taking a fresh approach to one of the world’s most fascinating card games, making it easier for new players to learn, play and enjoy the social benefits of Bridge.
The Ace in the Hole Bridge Club, which meets at Bathurst Golf Club, is introducing players to Minibridge – a simplified version of the game designed to get people playing cards sooner.
Bridge is renowned as a mentally stimulating game, but it is also an incredibly social activity. Bringing people together around the card table, the game encourages conversation, connection and friendly competition, and has even been described as one of the best antidotes to loneliness ever invented.
For those familiar with Euchre or 500, Bridge shares some similarities but takes the challenge a few steps further. Traditionally, learning Bridge involves detailed lessons on bidding systems before players spend significant time actually playing hands.
The Ace in the Hole Bridge Club is blazing a different trail.
Minibridge was developed in Europe more than 30 years ago and simplifies the bidding process, allowing beginners to focus on learning the card-playing aspect of Bridge. Within just a few hours, new players can begin playing hands in much the same format as traditional Bridge.
The approach provides a welcoming introduction for anyone who may have previously considered Bridge too complicated or difficult to learn.
Whether you are an experienced card player looking for a new challenge, keen to keep the mind active, or simply searching for a social activity and the chance to meet new people, the club welcomes enquiries.
Anyone interested in learning or playing Minibridge or Bridge can contact Bob Dillon on 0429 784 013 or email bobd4121@gmail.com.