The Open team finished their campaign, and ended in 12th position. Match 14 was against Latvia, and they lost 7 - 23. In match 15 they played Sweden and won 17 - 13. Match 16 was againsr Iceland and they won that 24 - 6. Their final match, on Saturday morning was against Poland, and the England team won 17 - 13. They finished in 12th position. Norway took the Gold medal with 299, Russia the Silver with 287, and Gemany the Bronze with 286. The other World Championship qualifiers were Bulgaria, Italy and the Netherlands.
You can view all the results on the European Bridge League website.
Monday, 30 June 2008
Saturday, 28 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC IX
This is Bill with the "last rites from Pau". We came, we tried we failed. We are now lying in twelfth position and short of a miracle this morning we will not meet our second objective of finishing in the top ten (European Champions Cup qualification).
Yesterday epitomises our championship- in the first match against lowly Latvia we were well beaten 23-7 then in the two difficult matches against Sweden and Iceland we won 17-13 and 24-6. Finishing on a very positive note I would make two points.
- the team performed well against the top teams.
-the two Johns', after an indifferent qualifying series, played brilliantly in the final round robin and at the time of writing this report are lying second overall in the " Butler rankings".
Yesterday epitomises our championship- in the first match against lowly Latvia we were well beaten 23-7 then in the two difficult matches against Sweden and Iceland we won 17-13 and 24-6. Finishing on a very positive note I would make two points.
- the team performed well against the top teams.
-the two Johns', after an indifferent qualifying series, played brilliantly in the final round robin and at the time of writing this report are lying second overall in the " Butler rankings".
Pau - England Women finish 8th
Womens team in Pau.
.................Click on picture to enlarge. Left to Right: Rob Cliffe (Coach), Heather Dhondy, Catherine Draper, Anne Rosen, Catherine Jagger, Sarah Teshome, Nevena Senior, Alan Mould (Captain)
The England Women's team finished their campaign in 8th place, missing out on qualifying for the World Championship for which they needed a top six finish. A total of 52 VP's from the three matches yesterday would have been enough, sadly that could only manage 43 VPs. Their final three results were 15 - 15 against Finland, 20 - 10 against Greece and 12 - 18 against Italy.
.................Click on picture to enlarge. Left to Right: Rob Cliffe (Coach), Heather Dhondy, Catherine Draper, Anne Rosen, Catherine Jagger, Sarah Teshome, Nevena Senior, Alan Mould (Captain)
The England Women's team finished their campaign in 8th place, missing out on qualifying for the World Championship for which they needed a top six finish. A total of 52 VP's from the three matches yesterday would have been enough, sadly that could only manage 43 VPs. Their final three results were 15 - 15 against Finland, 20 - 10 against Greece and 12 - 18 against Italy.
Pau - Seniors miss out by a whisker
The England Seniors team missed out on qualification for the Seniors World Championship by the narrowest of margins, a split tie. At the end of their campaign they were tied for 6th place with Italy. The qualification rules state that if two teams are tied on VPs, then the winner of the match between the two teams is the qualifier, and sadly that was Italy. Their final three results were 18 - 12 against Austria, 15 - 15 against Scotland, and 13 - 17 against Finland.
Friday, 27 June 2008
Pau - England Women bounce back
The England women's team had a fantastic day yesterday and have bounced back into contention for a World Championship place and even a medal. The began in match 20 with a crucial 20 - 10 win over Norway, crucial because Norway are also contenders for the leading positions. In match 21 they beat Austria 24 - 6 and in match 22 they beat Wales 21 - 9. They now lie 7th, only 3 vps behind 6th place which would mean world championship qualification, and 17 behind the medal positions. With three matches still to go, one on them against 3rd placed Italy, a medal is still possible. Scores France 396, Germany 393, Italy 390, Sweden 383, Spain 382, Denmark 376, England 373.
Todays final three matches
Todays final three matches
| Round 23 | 09:30 | England v Finland |
| Round 24 | 13:15 | England v Greece |
| Round 25 | 16:35 | England v Italy |
Pau - England Seniors in contention for medals
A decent set of results yestrday means that the Seniors team are very much in contention for the world championshio qualifications and have a realistic chance of clibming into one of the medal positions. The began yeaterday with a narro 14 - 16 loss to Belgium, then they won 21 - 9 agianst Israel and they finished with a 17 - 13 win against Germany. Scores Belgium 289, Turkey 287 Sweden 275, Netherlands 272, England 267, Italy 266, France 262.
Todays final three matches
Todays final three matches
| Round 17 | 09:30 | England v Austria |
| Round 18 | 13:15 | England v Scotland |
| Round 19 | 16:35 | England v Finland |
Pau - England Open Team out of contention
One more heavy defeat yesterday means that the England Open team are now out of contention for a World Championship place. Mathematically it is still possible but they would nead near maximum wins in their four remaining matches and some favourable results from other teams, in practice this is highly unlikely to happen. Their three results yesterday, lost 6 - 24 to Russia, lost 14 - 16 to Bulgaria & won 23 - 7 against Czech replublic.
They have three matches today and their final match is tomorrow
Today
Tomorrow
They have three matches today and their final match is tomorrow
Today
| Round 14 | 09:30 | England v Latvia |
| Round 15 | 13:15 | England v Sweden |
| Round 16 | 16:35 | England v Iceland |
Tomorrow
| Round 17 | 09:30 | England v Poland |
Thursday, 26 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC VIII
Since my last report following our disastrous match against Denmark our results have been, to say the least, disappointing.
Round 6 on Tuesday morning we were up against the strong Norwegian side-Jason, Justin and the two Johns' were playing and both pairs put in solid performances to secure a very satisfactory 19-11 win- we were back in business but unfortunately the next match against France saw us throw away an early 16 imp lead to lose 46-26 (19-11 victory points to France)-this was Tony and Paul's first bad match and I think I should have continued with the twins/Johns' who were flying high following their victory against Norway.
Yesterday was not a good day-we lost heavily to Netherlands 22-81 (4-25 victory points) However, the match against Italy saw some really good bridge. The two Johns' were again teamed up with Justin/Jason and the match was tied with one board to go but unfortunately the twins played in 3NT,from the right side making all thirteen tricks-
I thought we were going to win when, due to a system bid, it looked as if Italy were going to play 5S or 6S or 6NT from the wrong side but an inspired 6D right sided the contract and a three/two diamond break saw the slam home (19-11 to Italy). In the evening match we lost narrowly to Israel but it was a match we should have won convincingly.
Round 6 on Tuesday morning we were up against the strong Norwegian side-Jason, Justin and the two Johns' were playing and both pairs put in solid performances to secure a very satisfactory 19-11 win- we were back in business but unfortunately the next match against France saw us throw away an early 16 imp lead to lose 46-26 (19-11 victory points to France)-this was Tony and Paul's first bad match and I think I should have continued with the twins/Johns' who were flying high following their victory against Norway.
Yesterday was not a good day-we lost heavily to Netherlands 22-81 (4-25 victory points) However, the match against Italy saw some really good bridge. The two Johns' were again teamed up with Justin/Jason and the match was tied with one board to go but unfortunately the twins played in 3NT,from the right side making all thirteen tricks-
I thought we were going to win when, due to a system bid, it looked as if Italy were going to play 5S or 6S or 6NT from the wrong side but an inspired 6D right sided the contract and a three/two diamond break saw the slam home (19-11 to Italy). In the evening match we lost narrowly to Israel but it was a match we should have won convincingly.
Pau - England Open team slip further
Day four of the Open team final and the England team have dropped into the bottom half of the table. They lost all three matches, 4 - 25 to the Netherlands, 11 - 19 to Italy and 14 - 16 to Israel. There are seven matches to go, still time for the team to fight their way back into a world Championship qualifying position.
England have three matches today
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
England have three matches today
| Round 11 | 09:30 | England v Russia |
| Round 12 | 13:15 | England v Bulgaria |
| Round 13 | 16:35 | England v Czech Republic |
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Women remain 9th
Day 7 of the Womens championship was a fairly quiet day for the women, in the first match they lost 14 - 16 to Croatoa they had a bye in the middle match and they finished in a high with a 16 - 14 win against leaders Germany. They remain 9th but still very much in touch with the leaders.
They have three matches today
The First match match, against Norway will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
They have three matches today
| Round 20 | 09:30 | England v Norway |
| Round 21 | 13:15 | England v Austria |
| Round 22 | 16:35 | England v Wales |
The First match match, against Norway will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Pau - England Seniors have mixed fortunes
Day 5 was an up and down day for the seniors. The started with a big win, 23 - 7 against the Netherlands, then they beat Italy 18 - 12, but the final match was a disappointing 5 - 25 loss to Estonia. At the tnd of the day they are in 5th place, still in a qualifying place in for the World Championship, and within sight of the medal positions.
England Seniors have three matches today
England Seniors have three matches today
| Round 14 | 09:30 | England v Belgium |
| Round 15 | 13:15 | England v Israel |
| Round 16 | 16:35 | England v Germany |
Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Pau - Open team slip to mid-table
Day three of the Open team final and the England team have slipped to a mid-table position. Match 6 was against Norway and they won it 17 - 13. Match 7 was against France and they lost it 11 - 19. England now lie 10th on 105 Vps. The leaders are Germany 129, Norway 127, Sweden 127, Russia 115. The top 6 teams will qualify for the world Championship in Sao Paulo next year.
England have three matches today
The second match, against Italy will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
England have three matches today
| Round 8 | 09:30 | England v Netherlands |
| Round 9 | 13:15 | England v Italy |
| Round 10 | 16:35 | England v Israel |
The second match, against Italy will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Womens Team slip to 9th
The womens team's bad run has continued. On day six of their event they played two matches. Match 15 was against Sweden and they lost it 7 - 23. In match 16 they played the Netherlands and drew 15 - 15. They have now slipped to 9th place. Scores: 1. Germany 291, 2. Italy 281, 3. France 274, 4. Netherlands and Spain 269 9. England 260. The top 6 teams will qualify for the world Championship in Sao Paulo next year.
There are three rounds today, England have a bye in the middle match.
There are three rounds today, England have a bye in the middle match.
| Round 17 | 09:30 | England v Croatia |
| Round 18 | 13:15 | England have a bye |
| Round 19 | 16:35 | England v Germany |
Pau - England Seniors drop out of medal positions
The seniors had a bad day on day 4 of their event and have droppen out of the medal positions. In match 9 they played Seweden and lost 9 - 23. Match 10 was agains Italy, and that was a loss too, 11 - 19. Italy now lead with 188, and they are followed by Belgium 182, Netherlands 171, England & Turkey 169. The top 6 teams will qualify for the World Championship in Sao Paulo next year.
England have three matches today
England have three matches today
| Round 11 | 09:30 | England v Netherlands |
| Round 12 | 13:15 | England v Ireland |
| Round 13 | 16:35 | England v Estonia |
Tuesday, 24 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC VII
Yesterday the weather was very humid, the mosquitoes were biting and unfortunately it was a poor day for our bridge.
After an indifferent start against Portugal the team came back well to win 18-12.In the afternoon match we were on Rama against Germany- the match was level after 8 boards but on the ninth the Germans had a bidding misunderstanding and reached 7S missing a cashable ace. The rest of the room were in 4S+1. We failed to find the lead and two finesses later Germany recorded +2210, minus 17 imps instead of plus 13! After that the Germans played well and finished up winning 23-7.
Playing against Denmark in the evening match we could do nothing right-opening leads cost a slam and a game, we went off in a game we could have made (made at the other table) and failed to bid two other games. We lost 24-6, not our day but we are still in the top six and tomorrow (Norway and France) is another day.
After an indifferent start against Portugal the team came back well to win 18-12.In the afternoon match we were on Rama against Germany- the match was level after 8 boards but on the ninth the Germans had a bidding misunderstanding and reached 7S missing a cashable ace. The rest of the room were in 4S+1. We failed to find the lead and two finesses later Germany recorded +2210, minus 17 imps instead of plus 13! After that the Germans played well and finished up winning 23-7.
Playing against Denmark in the evening match we could do nothing right-opening leads cost a slam and a game, we went off in a game we could have made (made at the other table) and failed to bid two other games. We lost 24-6, not our day but we are still in the top six and tomorrow (Norway and France) is another day.
Pau - bad day for England Open team
Day two of the Final went badly for Englands Open team. Having started so well they were hoping to continue where they left off on day two, but it as not to be. Match 3 went OK, it was against Portugal and England won it 18 - 12. Match 4 was the first reversal, England played Gerlamy and lost 7 - 23. It continued in match 5, against Denmark, England losing that too, 6 - 24, and they have dropped to 6th position. Leading scores are now Germany 103, Norway 95, Sweden 94, Iceland 89, Denmark 82, England 77, Netherlands 77. The top 6 teams qualify for the World Championships in Sao Paulo next year, so despite this setback England are still very much in the race for one of the qualifying places.
They have just two matches today
The second match, against France will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
They have just two matches today
| Round 6 | 09:30 | England v Norway |
| Round 7 | 13:15 | England v France |
The second match, against France will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Women slip out of medal positions
Day 5 was a medioche day for the England Womens team, and at the end of it they had slipped down to 4th place. round 12 was against Turkey, and the result was a loss, 12 - 18. Round 13 was a narrow loss to Poland 14 - 16, and in Round 15 they lost again, 10 - 20. They are now loying in 4th Position. Leading scores Italy 153, Germany 248, France 240, England 238, Norway 238, Netherlands 237. The top six teams qualify for the World Championships in Sao Paulo, so despite the last two day's results the team is still on course for qualificaion.
They have just two matches today
The second match, against Netherlands will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
They have just two matches today
| Round 15 | 09:30 | England v Sweden |
| Round 16 | 13:15 | England v Netherlands |
The second match, against Netherlands will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Pau - Seniors slip to second
It was a mixed day for the seniors team on day three of their event. In match 6 they played Turkey and lost 11 - 19. Match 7 was against Poland, and thast was also and 11 -19 loss. However they recovered in the last match, and collected a maximum, 25 - 3 against Norway. At the end of the day they have slipped a place, but still occupy the Silver medal position. Leaders Italy 115, England & Belgium 114, Netherlands 113, Denmark 102, France 99.
They have just two matches today
They have just two matches today
| Round 9 | 09:30 | England v Sweden |
| Round 10 | 13:15 | England v Italy |
Monday, 23 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC VI
Yesterday the weather was hot and humid but, for the first time our Open Team hit top form. At one stage yesterday we were leading in all three events and at the end of the day we were first in the Open and Senior series and second in the ladies!
Against Estonia, I was watching Paul and Tony and after a quiet start Paul found a good lead and defence against 6H (the Johns played the contract from the right side) and we gained 1600 on the next board when Paul and Tony defeated 7Hx and the Johns' took 1100 from 6Sx. John Armstrong made 3NT on a nice end play on the last board of the match and Paul and Tony defeated the same contract by 6 tricks on an accurate defence.
We got off to an excellent start against Turkey and we consolidated to run out comfortable winners 21-9 The team played well all day but it was great to see the Johns' "on fire".
Can we keep it up? Fingers crossed.
Against Estonia, I was watching Paul and Tony and after a quiet start Paul found a good lead and defence against 6H (the Johns played the contract from the right side) and we gained 1600 on the next board when Paul and Tony defeated 7Hx and the Johns' took 1100 from 6Sx. John Armstrong made 3NT on a nice end play on the last board of the match and Paul and Tony defeated the same contract by 6 tricks on an accurate defence.
We got off to an excellent start against Turkey and we consolidated to run out comfortable winners 21-9 The team played well all day but it was great to see the Johns' "on fire".
Can we keep it up? Fingers crossed.
Pau - England take early lead in Open final
At the end of the first days play in the Open Final, England have taken an early lead. They had a massive struggle to qualify for the Final, but having got there, they have started in the best possible way, with tow big wins, one of them a maximum. In match one they played Estonia, and beat them 25-4. Their second match was against Turkey, ant that resulted in a 21-9 win. Thet lead with a score of 46 Vps, and are followed by Sweden 45, Bulgaria 41 & Norway 41.
They have three matches today
The first match, against Portugal will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
They have three matches today
| Round 3 | 09:30 | England v Portugal |
| Round 4 | 13:15 | England v Germany |
| Round 5 | 16:35 | England v Denmark |
The first match, against Portugal will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Women have tough day
Day 4 was definitely the toughest day for the England Women. They had three hard matches, all of the against conteders for the World Championship. They finally lost their undefeated record in Round 9, when they lost 7 - 23 to Israel. They recovered their composure after that setback to get a 15 - 15 draw with Denmark and finished the day with a narrow 14 -16 loss to hosts France. They have lost the lead but have only dropped one place to 2nd. Italy are the new leader. They have 207 Vps England are second with 202, then Norway 199, Germany 196.
They have three matches today
They have three matches today
| Round 12 | 09:30 | England v Turkey |
| Round 13 | 13:15 | England v Poland |
| Round 14 | 16:35 | England v Spain |
Pau - England's Seniors take the lead
At the end of the day 2 of their event the England's Senior Team have taken the lead in their event after getting three big wins on day 2. They bagan the day with a maximum, 25 - 2 against Spain in match 3. Match 4 was against Wales and they got anothe big win 24 - 6. They finish up with a match against Denmark, and won that won too, 21 - 9. They now lead the Seniors series with 103 Vps, and are followed by Belgium on 95, Italy 94 and Netherlands 91.
They have three matches today
.
They have three matches today
| Round 6 | 09:30 | England v Turkey |
| Round 7 | 13:15 | England v Poland |
| Round 8 | 16:35 | England v Norway |
.
Sunday, 22 June 2008
STOP PRESS - England lead in all three series !!
No, this is not a joke. After two matches on Sunday, the England teams are all first, or joint first in ther respective events. The Women and Seniors have one more match today, but the Open team have finished for the day.
Having qualified for the final by the skin of their teeth, the Open team got off to a cracking start, winning their two matches 25-4 and 21-9 and lead after two matches with 46 VPs. The Women lost their first match 7-23 and drew the second 15-15, but thanks to their big overnight lead they are still in front, tied for first with Italy on 188Vps. The Seniors have had two big wins today, 25-2 & 24-6 and they too now lead their series. They have 82 Vps, one more than Belgium.
Having qualified for the final by the skin of their teeth, the Open team got off to a cracking start, winning their two matches 25-4 and 21-9 and lead after two matches with 46 VPs. The Women lost their first match 7-23 and drew the second 15-15, but thanks to their big overnight lead they are still in front, tied for first with Italy on 188Vps. The Seniors have had two big wins today, 25-2 & 24-6 and they too now lead their series. They have 82 Vps, one more than Belgium.
Pau - The Open Final begins
Today the Final Round robin of the Open Series begins, and the important thing, as far as the England supporters are concerned, is that the England team qualified (which is more than can be said for our football team!). Whether teams qualified in first place or ninth is now irrelevant, the scoreboard is wiped and all the teams are starting level again. The final will be a complete round robin of 17 matches, so England will play the eight other qualifiers from group A for a second time, as well as meeting the nine qualifiers from group B.
THere are just two matches on day 1 of the Final.
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
THere are just two matches on day 1 of the Final.
| Round 1 | 09:30 | England v Estonia |
| Round 2 | 13:15 | England v Turkey |
You can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Women move further ahead
The England Women's team had another good day on day 3, getting two more wins, and so keeping their 100% winning record. Match 7 was against Scotland, and they won that one 22 - 8. Match 8 was against Czech Republic and they got their second maximum win, 25 - 3. They are now 15 ahead of second. Leading scores England 166, Italy 151, Germany 146, Sweden 145.
Today's matches are (BST)
The final match, against France will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Today's matches are (BST)
| Round 9 | 09:30 | England v Israel |
| Round 10 | 13:15 | England v Denmark |
| Round 11 | 16:35 | England v France |
The final match, against France will be shown on Bridge Base Online. and BBOTV.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England Seniors begin with two wins
The England Seniors started their campaign with two wins, allbeit small ones. In match 1 they played France and won that 17 - 13, and in match 2 they beat Switzerland 16 - 14 They are in 7th place with a score of 33, The leading scores are Denmark 47, Belgium 41, Netherlands 38, Italy 36.
Today's matches are (BST)
Today's matches are (BST)
| Round 3 | 09:30 | England v Spain |
| Round 4 | 13:15 | England v Wales |
| Round 5 | 16:35 | England v Denmark |
Saturday, 21 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC V
This is Bill reporting from Pau. We are still here but only just- this morning we drew with Switzerland 15-15 and Iceland beat Finland 19-11 thus we qualified on a split tie. I have said in previous reports that we have been unlucky in some of our matches but I would be less than honest if I did not admit we were fortunate to scrape through.
Whatever, we now start with a "blank sheet of paper" and tomorrow the Championship starts in earnest. Up to now we have performed better against the stronger teams and I am hoping that our form will continue to improve and that we will meet our next objective- top eight for the team to qualify for The Olympiad (mind sports) and top sixth to make The World Championship.
Whatever, we now start with a "blank sheet of paper" and tomorrow the Championship starts in earnest. Up to now we have performed better against the stronger teams and I am hoping that our form will continue to improve and that we will meet our next objective- top eight for the team to qualify for The Olympiad (mind sports) and top sixth to make The World Championship.
Pau - England qualify for Open Final
England have qualified for the final by the narrowest of margins, a split tie.
In the final match England drew with Switzerland 15 - 15 which gives them a final total of 301 Vps. Finland lost to Iceland 11 - 19 and so also have a final total of 301 Vps. England and Finland finished in joint 9th position. If two teams finish level the team that won the head-to-head match advances and England beat Finland 17 - 13 when they met, so England qualify for the final, and Finland unluckily lose out.
In the final match England drew with Switzerland 15 - 15 which gives them a final total of 301 Vps. Finland lost to Iceland 11 - 19 and so also have a final total of 301 Vps. England and Finland finished in joint 9th position. If two teams finish level the team that won the head-to-head match advances and England beat Finland 17 - 13 when they met, so England qualify for the final, and Finland unluckily lose out.
Thoughts of an NPC IV
This is Bill reporting from Pau on the morning of the seventh day of the Open Teams Championship. It's nine oclock in the morning, there is not a cloud in the sky but a dark cloud hangs over our prospects of progressing into the final round robin.
Day six saw us loose 20-10 to the old enemy (Scotland).I think we were unlucky in that Scotland played in 3NT without investigating a 5-3 major fit for 9 tricks whilst we were one off in 4H-perhaps they judged better, they made 4S by playing small to the king holding K109xx opposite xxx for two losers whilst John Holland entered dummy twice (some slight risk of a club ruff) and finessed the nine and ten-technically correct but very close when you take into account the possibility of the ruff. John lost to QJ doubleton and my sympathies are with him. Finally what do you lead holding SK10xxx Hxxxx Dxx CAx when partner opens 3D first in hand and right hand opponent bids 3NT.Jason led a diamond and that was 12imp out when the spade lead beats the contract. Scotland found the spade lead as there was no pre-empt. (I understand they only pre-empt holding 2 of the top three honours)
We drew 15-15 with Denmark and beat Croatia 20-10 -we are now lying 10th with one match to go. Denmark beat Italy 25-4!
I'm now going to watch the final match against Switzerland- we need a good result and for Iceland to beat Finland.
Day six saw us loose 20-10 to the old enemy (Scotland).I think we were unlucky in that Scotland played in 3NT without investigating a 5-3 major fit for 9 tricks whilst we were one off in 4H-perhaps they judged better, they made 4S by playing small to the king holding K109xx opposite xxx for two losers whilst John Holland entered dummy twice (some slight risk of a club ruff) and finessed the nine and ten-technically correct but very close when you take into account the possibility of the ruff. John lost to QJ doubleton and my sympathies are with him. Finally what do you lead holding SK10xxx Hxxxx Dxx CAx when partner opens 3D first in hand and right hand opponent bids 3NT.Jason led a diamond and that was 12imp out when the spade lead beats the contract. Scotland found the spade lead as there was no pre-empt. (I understand they only pre-empt holding 2 of the top three honours)
We drew 15-15 with Denmark and beat Croatia 20-10 -we are now lying 10th with one match to go. Denmark beat Italy 25-4!
I'm now going to watch the final match against Switzerland- we need a good result and for Iceland to beat Finland.
Pau - Down to the wire
Open group A will go down to the wire. There are nine qualifying places up for grabs, and only two teams, Netherlands and Italy, have secured their places. There are eight teams battling today for the seven remaining places. Today will not be about bridge, it will be about which teams can play best under pressure. After a poor day yesterday, England start in tenth place. They need a good result, and they need one of the teams above them to faulter. Ironically it was our old rivals Scotland that caused England the most problems yesterday. They always save their best form for when they play England, and so it proved yesterday, Scotland beat England 20 - 10 in match 16. Match 17 was against qualifying rivals Denmark and it ended with honours even, a 15 - 15 draw. England recovered a bit from the Scotland defeat in match 18, with a 19 - 11 win over Croatia. Leading Scores: 1. Netherlands 331, 2. Italy 319, 3. Latvia 309, 4. Iceland 304, 5. Denmark 299, 6. Czech Republic 296, 7. Israel 294, 8. Turkey 291, 9. Finland 290, 10 England 286. Group B is alot clearer, Sweden, Norway, Rusia, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Portugal & Poland have all secured their places in the final. Estonia are 9th and Ireland are 10th, 15.3 Vps behind them. So Ireland need a big win and they need Estonia to lose heavily, otherwise Estionia will be the 9th qualifier from Group B.
England's final group match, against Switzerland, will be broadcast on Bridge Base Online . I trust you all will be watching and supporting!.
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
England's final group match, against Switzerland, will be broadcast on Bridge Base Online . I trust you all will be watching and supporting!.
| Round 19 | 09:30 | England v Switzerland |
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Pau - England's Women riding high
The England Women's team continued on day 2 as they began on day 1 with three more good wins, making the it six out of six. In Round 4 for they played Lebanon and scored a maximum 25 vps. In round 5 they played a the strong Russian team and beat them 20 - 10 , and they finished the day with a 16 - 14 win over Iceland. They lead with a score of 119, ahead of Germany 113, Italy 112 and Norway 109.
Today they just have two matches:-
Today they just have two matches:-
| Round 7 | 13:15 | England v Scotland |
| Round 8 | 16:35 | England v Czech Republic |
Pau - Seniors begin
The Seniors championship gets under way today. The England team is
Our team consists of
David Price and Colin Simpson, Chris Dixon and Victor Silverstone and Ross Harper and Andrew Thompson.
Today they just have two matches:-
England's opening first match, against France, will be broadcast on Bridge Base Online.
Our team consists of
David Price and Colin Simpson, Chris Dixon and Victor Silverstone and Ross Harper and Andrew Thompson.
Today they just have two matches:-
| Round 1 | 13:15 | England v France |
| Round 2 | 16:35 | England v Switzerland |
England's opening first match, against France, will be broadcast on Bridge Base Online.
Friday, 20 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC III
This is Bill reporting from the Open Team at the end of day five. Weather is warm and sunny and the view to the mountains is stunning.
Day five -matches against Netherlands, Czech Rep. and Iceland who were lying 2nd, 1st and 4th in Group A respectively were going to be crucial to our survival. The team responded magnificently with wins of 20-10, 20-10 and 16-14. We are now lying 9th with four matches to go but our first two matches in day 6 are against Scotland and Denmark- Scotland are having a rough time but they tend to play well against England and Denmark are competing with us for one of the remaining qualifying places so it will be far from an easy ride. We need to play well as we have now reached the stage where there is no second chance. The team is "coming good" so I am quietly optimistic but I will let you know tomorrow if we made it.
Day five -matches against Netherlands, Czech Rep. and Iceland who were lying 2nd, 1st and 4th in Group A respectively were going to be crucial to our survival. The team responded magnificently with wins of 20-10, 20-10 and 16-14. We are now lying 9th with four matches to go but our first two matches in day 6 are against Scotland and Denmark- Scotland are having a rough time but they tend to play well against England and Denmark are competing with us for one of the remaining qualifying places so it will be far from an easy ride. We need to play well as we have now reached the stage where there is no second chance. The team is "coming good" so I am quietly optimistic but I will let you know tomorrow if we made it.
Thursday, 19 June 2008
Pau - Ladies Day!
It's Ladies day at Royal Ascot. What colour hat will the queen be wearing?
It's also Ladies day in Pau. The Women's championship gets under way today. The England team is Heather Dhondy - Nevena Senior, Catherine Jagger - Sarah Teshome, Catherine Draper - Anne Rosen.
Heather Dhondy is playing in her seventh European. So far she has won three gold medals and two bronze medals in her six outings, quite a record! She has a new partner this time, Nevena Senior. Nevena is playing her fifth European. The first three were for her native country, Bulgaria. In the fourth which was her first outing for England, she won a bronze medal, her partner then was Sandra Penfold.
Catherine Jagger & Sarah Teshome made their debut appearance at the last European in Warsaw 2006, and were bronze medalists there. They were also in the England team that won the Lady Milne ( Home International Championship) earlier this year.
Catherine Draper & Anne Rosen are making their debut in the European Championship this year. They were winners of the Womens trials, and were also in the England team that won the Lady Milne this year.
The England Womens team will play a complete round robin of twenty-five matches. Their first three are today and are (BST)
Day 4 was a frustrating day for the Open team. They won two matches but they were not playing the top teams so were hoping for better. Match 10 was against Lithuania, and they won that 20 -10. Match 11 they lost to Turkey 11 - 19, and they finished the day with a 18 - 12 win over Luxembourg. England are still in 11th position, their score is now with 185 Vps, just 5 Vps behind 9th position. Netherlands have now taken the lead and have 224. They are followed by Czech Rep 223, Finland 214 & Italy 210. England need to finish in the top 9 out of the 19 teams in their group to qualify for the second stage. Ther is also a new leader in group B, it's Sweden with 242 Vps. They are followed by Rusia 225, Germany 220 & Norway 206.3.
The England Open team have three tough matches today, and will have to play well to maintain their position. All three of their matches are being shown on Bridge Base Online. The matches are (BST)
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
It's also Ladies day in Pau. The Women's championship gets under way today. The England team is Heather Dhondy - Nevena Senior, Catherine Jagger - Sarah Teshome, Catherine Draper - Anne Rosen.
Heather Dhondy is playing in her seventh European. So far she has won three gold medals and two bronze medals in her six outings, quite a record! She has a new partner this time, Nevena Senior. Nevena is playing her fifth European. The first three were for her native country, Bulgaria. In the fourth which was her first outing for England, she won a bronze medal, her partner then was Sandra Penfold.
Catherine Jagger & Sarah Teshome made their debut appearance at the last European in Warsaw 2006, and were bronze medalists there. They were also in the England team that won the Lady Milne ( Home International Championship) earlier this year.
Catherine Draper & Anne Rosen are making their debut in the European Championship this year. They were winners of the Womens trials, and were also in the England team that won the Lady Milne this year.
The England Womens team will play a complete round robin of twenty-five matches. Their first three are today and are (BST)
| Round 1 | 09:30 | England v Ireland |
| Round 2 | 13:15 | England v Hungary |
| Round 3 | 16:35 | England v Portugal |
Day 4 was a frustrating day for the Open team. They won two matches but they were not playing the top teams so were hoping for better. Match 10 was against Lithuania, and they won that 20 -10. Match 11 they lost to Turkey 11 - 19, and they finished the day with a 18 - 12 win over Luxembourg. England are still in 11th position, their score is now with 185 Vps, just 5 Vps behind 9th position. Netherlands have now taken the lead and have 224. They are followed by Czech Rep 223, Finland 214 & Italy 210. England need to finish in the top 9 out of the 19 teams in their group to qualify for the second stage. Ther is also a new leader in group B, it's Sweden with 242 Vps. They are followed by Rusia 225, Germany 220 & Norway 206.3.
The England Open team have three tough matches today, and will have to play well to maintain their position. All three of their matches are being shown on Bridge Base Online. The matches are (BST)
| Round 13 | 09:30 | England v Netherlands |
| Round 14 | 13:15 | England v Czeck Rep. |
| Round 15 | 16:35 | England v Iceland |
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC II
This is Bill reporting from Pau at the end of Day 3.The weather is overcast with some rain and tensions are still high as we are now placed eleventh in our group.- remember nine teams qualify for the second and all important round robin.
Since my last report we have beaten Finland 17-13, lost to Spain 14-16, beat Greece 19-11 and Serbia 17-13. In most of our matches we seem to start badly and come good at the end. None of this is at all good for my nerves.
Against Spain I was watching the two Johns' and was concerned that a big defeat looked possible until they managed to defeat a very makeable slam on the penultimate board - which gave me some hope. Thankfully Paul and Tony produced a good card and the 14- 16 defeat felt like a victory.
In general we have lost heavily on slams and to quote Jason "mostly of our own making"
Today we need to pick up points as on Thursday we play Netherlands, Iceland and Czech Rep- three tough matches and which I believe will be key to our qualification.
Next report soon.
Since my last report we have beaten Finland 17-13, lost to Spain 14-16, beat Greece 19-11 and Serbia 17-13. In most of our matches we seem to start badly and come good at the end. None of this is at all good for my nerves.
Against Spain I was watching the two Johns' and was concerned that a big defeat looked possible until they managed to defeat a very makeable slam on the penultimate board - which gave me some hope. Thankfully Paul and Tony produced a good card and the 14- 16 defeat felt like a victory.
In general we have lost heavily on slams and to quote Jason "mostly of our own making"
Today we need to pick up points as on Thursday we play Netherlands, Iceland and Czech Rep- three tough matches and which I believe will be key to our qualification.
Next report soon.
Pau - England moving up slowly
On Day 3 of the Championship the England Open team continued their fightback and are slowly working their towards qualification for the final stage. Match 7 was a narrow defeat, 14 - 16 to Spain. In Match 8 they beat Serbia 17 - 13 and they finished the day with a 19 - 11 win over Greece in Match 9. At the end of day 3 England are in 11th position with 136 Vps, just 3 Vps behind 9th position. Italy still lead group A with 164, followed by Netherlands 163, Czech Rep 161 & Finland 157. England need to finish in the top 9 out of the 19 teams in their group to qualify for the second stage. Germany head Group B with 186, followed by Sweden 183, Russia 154 and Norway Poland 152.3.
England have three more matches today, but none of these matches are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
England have three more matches today, but none of these matches are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
| Round 10 | 09:30 | England v Lithuania |
| Round 11 | 13:15 | England v Turkey |
| Round 12 | 16:35 | England v Luxembourg |
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
Pau - England fight back
Day 2 of the Championship was a much better day for our open team, as they fought their way right back into contention. It didn't start well, as in match 4 they played Latvia and were beaten 14 - 16. However the rest of the day was much better. In round 5 they faced one of the fancied teams, Israel and got a very good 20 - 10 win over them, then in round 6 they took on Finland. Finland are not normally rated as one of the top teams, however they had started extremely well and were lying in second place when England played them. England won the match 17 - 13, and the end of day 2 they have moved up to 11th position and have 86vps. Italy still lead group A with 115, followed by Finland 112, Netherlands 111, and Czech Rep 108. England need to finish in the top 9 out of the 19 teams in their group to qualify for the second stage. Germany head Group B with 123, followed by Sweden 117, Russia 115 and Poland 108.
England have three matches today, but none of these matches are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
England have three matches today, but none of these matches are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
| Round 7 | 09:30 | England v Spain |
| Round 8 | 13:15 | England v Serbia |
| Round 9 | 16:35 | England v Greece |
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Monday, 16 June 2008
Thoughts of an NPC
Sorry for the delay in submitting this first report but I was waiting until I had something positive to say about our bridge. For those who are not already aware England is in Group A and we need to finish in the first nine (out of nineteen) to qualify for the final round robin and as there is no carry over, there is no advantage in finishing first as against nineth- that is apart from pride.
Pau is an interesting city with quaint streets, up market shops, good restaurants and playing conditions at the Palais Beaumont are excellent.
Lebanon withdrew from the competition and Malta were moved from Group A to Group B thus giving us a bye in match two. Match one saw us lose 20-10 to Monaco and then we were beaten 23-7 by a very impressive Italian side but I was encouraged that, had we taken our opportunities, we could easily have secured at least a draw.
Day two and we are hoping to improve but were somewhat unlucky to lose 16-14 to Latvia when they bid a making grand missing Kxxx trumps. I am drafting this article whilst watching the two Johns playing against Israel-Israel are one of the favourites to qualify from Group A and at the time of writing I calculate we are slightly plus so "fingers crossed". Trust me to tempt providence, as on the next board the baddies bid and made a tight slam. Thankfully Paul and Tony had an excellent card in the closed room and we finished with a 20-10 win.
Finland tonight so I'm hoping for the best-we must stop trying to lead these teams into a false sense of security.
More to follow soon.
Pau is an interesting city with quaint streets, up market shops, good restaurants and playing conditions at the Palais Beaumont are excellent.
Lebanon withdrew from the competition and Malta were moved from Group A to Group B thus giving us a bye in match two. Match one saw us lose 20-10 to Monaco and then we were beaten 23-7 by a very impressive Italian side but I was encouraged that, had we taken our opportunities, we could easily have secured at least a draw.
Day two and we are hoping to improve but were somewhat unlucky to lose 16-14 to Latvia when they bid a making grand missing Kxxx trumps. I am drafting this article whilst watching the two Johns playing against Israel-Israel are one of the favourites to qualify from Group A and at the time of writing I calculate we are slightly plus so "fingers crossed". Trust me to tempt providence, as on the next board the baddies bid and made a tight slam. Thankfully Paul and Tony had an excellent card in the closed room and we finished with a 20-10 win.
Finland tonight so I'm hoping for the best-we must stop trying to lead these teams into a false sense of security.
More to follow soon.
Pau - England start slowly
England got off to a slow start in the Open Series of the European Championships. In match 1 they lost 10 - 20 to Monaco, in match 2 they scored 18 for a bye and in match 3 they lost 7 - 23 to tournament favourites Italy. At the end of day 1 they are in 16th position with 35vps. Italy lead the group with 65, followed by Czech Rep. 60, Israel 58, Finland 56. England need to finish in the top 9 out of the 19 teams in their group to qualify for the second stage.
They have three matches today, and all three are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
They have three matches today, and all three are being broadcast on Bridgebase Online. The matches are (BST)
| Round 4 | 09:30 | England v Latvia |
| Round 5 | 13:15 | England v Israel |
| Round 6 | 16:35 | England v Finland |
You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Pau - watch & support England from home
The Championship starts today. I hope some of you will be making the trip to Pau to watch and support our teams at the Championship, but for those of you unable to make the trip, thanks to modern technology, you can still watch all the action and follow the progress of our teams, and you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
The championships are being broadcast over the internet, and they can be viewed on Bridge Base Online. You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Let the games begin!
The championships are being broadcast over the internet, and they can be viewed on Bridge Base Online. You can download Bridge Base Online or view it without downloading anything, from the BBOTV website.
Also, you can follow the results round by round on the European Bridge League website. You can even get the running scores of matches currenly in play, click in the box at the top of the page.
Let the games begin!
Friday, 13 June 2008
Pau - The Daily Bulletin
Hidden away in a quiet room somewhere at the Beaumont Congress Palace in Pau, you will find a group of staff beavering away, day and night, producing the Daily Bulletin. The Daily Bulletin is the newspaper of the event and contains all the results from the previous day, the ranking tables, the list of matches that will be played that day and annoucements from the championship organisers. There are match reports including the 'Match of the Day', the vugraph schedule, humorous anecdotes and they usually slip in a few sports results as well; this year our championship coincides with Euro 2008 and Wimbledon, for starters. Readers of English Bridge will be familiar with regular contributors Brian Senior, Barry Rigal and Mark Horton and there are always a lot of bridge journalists from all over the world writing guest
articles. Anyone can contribute to the bulletin. If you're at the Championships, or even at home watching it on Bridge Base Online, and you feel the urge to submit something, I'm sure the bulletin editor will be happy to read it!
You used to only be able to get the bulletin if you were physically at the venue but now, thanks to the internet, you can view it at home by visiting the website where it is available both as a web page or (much better) as a PDF which you can download. Why not make it part of your daily routine during the Championships?
You might like to get a taster of what to expect so for the bulletins from Warsaw 2006 click here.
articles. Anyone can contribute to the bulletin. If you're at the Championships, or even at home watching it on Bridge Base Online, and you feel the urge to submit something, I'm sure the bulletin editor will be happy to read it!
You used to only be able to get the bulletin if you were physically at the venue but now, thanks to the internet, you can view it at home by visiting the website where it is available both as a web page or (much better) as a PDF which you can download. Why not make it part of your daily routine during the Championships?
You might like to get a taster of what to expect so for the bulletins from Warsaw 2006 click here.
Thursday, 12 June 2008
Pau - Seniors Team Draw
There are 20 teams entered in the Seniors Series of the European Championships in Pau, France. They will play a complete round robin of 19 rounds starting on Saturday 21 June.
The draw for the England Seniors team has been made, and their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
The draw for the England Seniors team has been made, and their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
| Round 1 | Sat 21 Jun 14:15 | France |
| Round 2 | Sat 21 Jun 17:35 | Switzerland |
| Round 3 | Sun 22 Jun 10:30 | Spain |
| Round 4 | Sun 22 Jun 14:15 | Wales |
| Round 5 | Sun 22 Jun 17:35 | Denmark |
| Round 6 | Mon 23 Jun 10:30 | Turkey |
| Round 7 | Mon 23 Jun 14:15 | Poland |
| Round 8 | Mon 23 Jun 17:35 | Norway |
| Round 9 | Tue 24 Jun 10:30 | Sweden |
| Round 10 | Tue 24 Jun 14:15 | Italy |
| Round 11 | Wed 25 Jun 10:30 | Netherlands |
| Round 12 | Wed 25 Jun 14:15 | Ireland |
| Round 13 | Wed 25 Jun 17:35 | Estonia |
| Round 14 | Thu 26 Jun 10:30 | Belgium |
| Round 15 | Thu 26 Jun 14:15 | Israel |
| Round 16 | Thu 26 Jun 17:35 | Germany |
| Round 17 | Fri 27 Jun 10:30 | Austria |
| Round 18 | Fri 27 Jun 14:15 | Scotland |
| Round 19 | Fri 27 Jun 17:35 | Finland |
Wednesday, 11 June 2008
Pau - Womens team draw
There are 25 teams entered in the Womens Series of the European Championships in Pau, France. They will play a complete round robin of 25 rounds starting on Thursday 19 June, each team will have one bye round because of the odd number of teams.
The draw for the England Womens team has been made, and their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
The draw for the England Womens team has been made, and their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
| Round 1 | Thu 19 Jun 10:30 | Ireland |
| Round 2 | Thu 19 Jun 14:15 | Hungary |
| Round 3 | Thu 19 Jun 17:35 | Portugal |
| Round 4 | Fri 20 Jun 10:30 | Lebanon |
| Round 5 | Fri 20 Jun 14:15 | Russia |
| Round 6 | Fri 20 Jun 17:35 | Monaco |
| Round 7 | Sat 21 Jun 14:15 | Malta |
| Round 8 | Sat 21 Jun 17:35 | Italy |
| Round 9 | Sun 22 Jun 10:30 | Israel |
| Round 10 | Sun 22 Jun 14:15 | Denmark |
| Round 11 | Sun 22 Jun 17:35 | France |
| Round 12 | Mon 23 Jun 10:30 | Turkey |
| Round 13 | Mon 23 Jun 14:15 | Poland |
| Round 14 | Mon 23 Jun 17:35 | Spain |
| Round 15 | Tue 24 Jun 10:30 | Sweden |
| Round 16 | Tue 24 Jun 14:15 | Netherlands |
| Round 17 | Wed 25 Jun 10:30 | Croatia |
| Round 18 | Wed 25 Jun 14:15 | Bye |
| Round 19 | Wed 25 Jun 17:35 | Germany |
| Round 20 | Thu 26 Jun 10:30 | Norway |
| Round 21 | Thu 26 Jun 14:15 | Austria |
| Round 22 | Thu 26 Jun 17:35 | Wales |
| Round 23 | Fri 27 Jun 10:30 | Finland |
| Round 24 | Fri 27 Jun 14:15 | Greece |
| Round 25 | Fri 27 Jun 17:35 | Italy |
Tuesday, 10 June 2008
Pau - Open team draw
There are 39 teams entered in the Open Series of the European Championships in Pau, France, a record high number, and too many to be able to play a complete round robin. So starting this year, the championship is divided into two stages. There are two groups in stage one, of 20 and 19 teams respectively and they play a complete round robin. At the conclusion of stage one, the top 9 teams in each group will progress to stage two, and there will be a further complete round robin.
The draw for stage one is out, and England are in group A which consists of 20 teams. Their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
The draw for stage one is out, and England are in group A which consists of 20 teams. Their order of play (local time, one hour ahead of us) is as follows:
| Round 1 | Sun 15 Jun 10:30 | Monaco |
| Round 2 | Sun 15 Jun 14:15 | Malta |
| Round 3 | Sun 15 Jun 17:35 | Italy |
| Round 4 | Mon 16 Jun 10:30 | Latvia |
| Round 5 | Mon 16 Jun 14:15 | Israel |
| Round 6 | Mon 16 Jun 17:35 | Finland |
| Round 7 | Tue 17 Jun 10:30 | Spain |
| Round 8 | Tue 17 Jun 14:15 | Serbia |
| Round 9 | Tue 17 Jun 17:35 | Greece |
| Round 10 | Wed 18 Jun 10:30 | Lithuania |
| Round 11 | Wed 18 Jun 14:15 | Turkey |
| Round 12 | Wed 18 Jun 17:35 | Luxembourg |
| Round 13 | Thu 19 Jun 10:30 | Netherlands |
| Round 14 | Thu 19 Jun 14:15 | Czech Rep. |
| Round 15 | Thu 19 Jun 17:35 | Iceland |
| Round 16 | Fri 20 Jun 10:30 | Scotland |
| Round 17 | Fri 20 Jun 14:15 | Denmark |
| Round 18 | Fri 20 Jun 17:35 | Croatia |
| Round 19 | Sat 21 Jun 10:30 | Switzerland |
Monday, 9 June 2008
Support England in Pau
Euro 2008 has just kicked off, and there will be very few England football fans making there way to Switzerland and Austria, since the England Football team failed to qualify for the finals.
However there are three England teams taking part in the Bridge Europeans in Pau, the Open, Women and Seniors, and they would very much welcome some live support from a few England bridge fans.
But bridge can't have the same atmosphere as a football match, I hear you say. Well, the attendance will be lower but there is still a great atmosphere at the Championship.
If you are in Pau, you will be able to watch the action live in the Vugraph Theatre. The setup will be very much like a cinema. At the front will be three large screens, one showing the hand graphically, one showing the results from all the other tables, and one showing a closed curcuit image of the players playing.
You will be able to follow the play on the big screen, while listening to the opinions of expert commentators. The audience will consist of sitting out players, captains, coaches, bridge journalists, and, most likely, a large number of french supporters. There will be loud cheers from the partisan audience every time a french team does something good. The players will not hear the cheering, however they will sense it is happening, and that is probably worth in the order of 25 VPs to the host country.
It's great entertainment, and, if you go there to spectate, you really get the feeling that you are part of the championship.
The English teams would also appreciate some support, if the know there are some english fans in the viewgraph audience, they too will sense the cheering, and it's bound to inspire them.
So, forget boring football, and take a trip to Pau to support our teams.
You can even play if you wish, the French Bridge Federation propose to hold an open tournament Tournoi de Paires de l'euro on the middle weekend (21st/22nd June). Please check the details with the EBU nearer the date.
However there are three England teams taking part in the Bridge Europeans in Pau, the Open, Women and Seniors, and they would very much welcome some live support from a few England bridge fans.
But bridge can't have the same atmosphere as a football match, I hear you say. Well, the attendance will be lower but there is still a great atmosphere at the Championship.
If you are in Pau, you will be able to watch the action live in the Vugraph Theatre. The setup will be very much like a cinema. At the front will be three large screens, one showing the hand graphically, one showing the results from all the other tables, and one showing a closed curcuit image of the players playing.
You will be able to follow the play on the big screen, while listening to the opinions of expert commentators. The audience will consist of sitting out players, captains, coaches, bridge journalists, and, most likely, a large number of french supporters. There will be loud cheers from the partisan audience every time a french team does something good. The players will not hear the cheering, however they will sense it is happening, and that is probably worth in the order of 25 VPs to the host country.
It's great entertainment, and, if you go there to spectate, you really get the feeling that you are part of the championship.
The English teams would also appreciate some support, if the know there are some english fans in the viewgraph audience, they too will sense the cheering, and it's bound to inspire them.
So, forget boring football, and take a trip to Pau to support our teams.
You can even play if you wish, the French Bridge Federation propose to hold an open tournament Tournoi de Paires de l'euro on the middle weekend (21st/22nd June). Please check the details with the EBU nearer the date.
Saturday, 7 June 2008
Under 28's team for Beijing announced
In all, England will represented by five teams in the World Mind Sports Games in Beijing, China, which takes place on 3rd - 18th October.
Four of the teams are playing in events open to all nations, they are the Open, Womens, Seniors & Under 28's teams.
There are two other teams championships taking place in Beijing, They are the World Championships for Under 25's & Under 20's. Only the teams that qualified through their Zonal championships get invited to this. The England Under 20's team finished 4th in the European Under 20's in Jesolo, Italy last year, which was good enough to qualify them for the World Championship.
The first of these teams, the England Under 28's team has now been announced. The Captain and Coach are yet to be determined, but the team will be
Four of the teams are playing in events open to all nations, they are the Open, Womens, Seniors & Under 28's teams.
There are two other teams championships taking place in Beijing, They are the World Championships for Under 25's & Under 20's. Only the teams that qualified through their Zonal championships get invited to this. The England Under 20's team finished 4th in the European Under 20's in Jesolo, Italy last year, which was good enough to qualify them for the World Championship.
The first of these teams, the England Under 28's team has now been announced. The Captain and Coach are yet to be determined, but the team will be
| Susan Stockdale and Fiona Brown | |
| Ben Green & Duncan Happer | |
| Ollie Burgess and Andrew Woodcock | |
| Reserves: Mike Bell and Michael Byrne |
Wednesday, 4 June 2008
The Ladies and Seniors Teams' Road to Pau
In our first article we looked at the prospects and aspirations of the Open Team. In this one we consider the Ladies and Senior Teams.
Our ladies have been by far our most successful team in The European Championships and since the inauguration of the ladies series in 1935 Great Britain (England since 2001) have won the gold medal a record thirteen times — the last time in 2001 with a team comprising Nicola Smith, Heather Dhondy, Michelle Brunner, Rhona Goldenfield, Sally Brock and Margaret James-Courtney.
Time moves on and a number of our senior lady players, notably Nicola Smith, Michelle Brunner and Rhona Goldenfield, will not be playing. Nicola tells me it is the first European Championship she has missed in thirty years. Some record and which, in all probability, will never be equalled and when I spoke to her she told me she had lost none of her enthusiasm for international bridge and hoped to be back.
This year our team will consist of Heather Dhondy and Nevena Senior, Sarah Teshome and Catherine Jagger and Anne Rosen and Catherine Draper. Sarah and Catherine competed successfully in the last European Championship getting a bronze medal and will be able to share in their experiences with their team mates who have formed new partnerships in the last year. The trials to select the team was won by Catherine and Anne, giving the partnership their first opportunity to play in a Ladies European. Both have represented England in the past albeit with different partners. Heather and Nevena complete the team and whilst their partnership is still in its infancy both players have great individual records in both domestic and world events and their experiences should be a great value to the team.
To summarise, anything could happen but I will be very suprised if we fail to qualify for the World Championships and a medal, possibly gold, is a decided possibility.
The Seniors event only started in 1995 and, in the early years was something of a "Mickey Mouse" event. This is no longer the case, the rules have been changed, standards are very high and to win a medal would be a great achievement.
Our team consists of David Price and Colin Simpson, Chris Dixon and Victor Silverstone and Ross Harper and Andrew Thompson. David and Colin are top players at any level and have represented England in the Open Series in 2004 and 2006 finishing 5th and 10th respectively. Chris and Victor are household names, both having played in previous Open teams and twice winning the prestigious NatWest Trophy invitation event. The two professors Harper and Thompson are a new partnership. Ross has been very successful playing with Paul Hackett winning The Australian Gold Coast Congress Teams and this year's Senior Trials. Fortunately/unfortunately Paul also qualified for The Open Team and consequently Ross teamed up with Andrew. Whilst Ross is a professor by academic qualification Andrew, to the best of my knowledge, has no professorship but he is affectionately known in London bridge circles as "The Professor" and he is an international player of considerable experience. This is a very strong team and if Ross and Andrew gel a medal is more than a possibility.
Alan Mould tells me that, in his opinion, home advantage is worth 25 victory points so if we can get behind our teams we can erode some of that advantage. Incidentally I understand The French Bridge Federation propose to hold an open tournament Tournoi de Paires de leuro on the middle weekend (21st/22nd June) so if you would like to support our teams and play a little competitive bridge as well come along and enjoy a few days in France. Please check the details with the EBU nearer the date.
In our next article we will look in more detail at the individual players. Keep reading.
Our ladies have been by far our most successful team in The European Championships and since the inauguration of the ladies series in 1935 Great Britain (England since 2001) have won the gold medal a record thirteen times — the last time in 2001 with a team comprising Nicola Smith, Heather Dhondy, Michelle Brunner, Rhona Goldenfield, Sally Brock and Margaret James-Courtney.
Time moves on and a number of our senior lady players, notably Nicola Smith, Michelle Brunner and Rhona Goldenfield, will not be playing. Nicola tells me it is the first European Championship she has missed in thirty years. Some record and which, in all probability, will never be equalled and when I spoke to her she told me she had lost none of her enthusiasm for international bridge and hoped to be back.
This year our team will consist of Heather Dhondy and Nevena Senior, Sarah Teshome and Catherine Jagger and Anne Rosen and Catherine Draper. Sarah and Catherine competed successfully in the last European Championship getting a bronze medal and will be able to share in their experiences with their team mates who have formed new partnerships in the last year. The trials to select the team was won by Catherine and Anne, giving the partnership their first opportunity to play in a Ladies European. Both have represented England in the past albeit with different partners. Heather and Nevena complete the team and whilst their partnership is still in its infancy both players have great individual records in both domestic and world events and their experiences should be a great value to the team.
To summarise, anything could happen but I will be very suprised if we fail to qualify for the World Championships and a medal, possibly gold, is a decided possibility.
The Seniors event only started in 1995 and, in the early years was something of a "Mickey Mouse" event. This is no longer the case, the rules have been changed, standards are very high and to win a medal would be a great achievement.
Our team consists of David Price and Colin Simpson, Chris Dixon and Victor Silverstone and Ross Harper and Andrew Thompson. David and Colin are top players at any level and have represented England in the Open Series in 2004 and 2006 finishing 5th and 10th respectively. Chris and Victor are household names, both having played in previous Open teams and twice winning the prestigious NatWest Trophy invitation event. The two professors Harper and Thompson are a new partnership. Ross has been very successful playing with Paul Hackett winning The Australian Gold Coast Congress Teams and this year's Senior Trials. Fortunately/unfortunately Paul also qualified for The Open Team and consequently Ross teamed up with Andrew. Whilst Ross is a professor by academic qualification Andrew, to the best of my knowledge, has no professorship but he is affectionately known in London bridge circles as "The Professor" and he is an international player of considerable experience. This is a very strong team and if Ross and Andrew gel a medal is more than a possibility.
Alan Mould tells me that, in his opinion, home advantage is worth 25 victory points so if we can get behind our teams we can erode some of that advantage. Incidentally I understand The French Bridge Federation propose to hold an open tournament Tournoi de Paires de leuro on the middle weekend (21st/22nd June) so if you would like to support our teams and play a little competitive bridge as well come along and enjoy a few days in France. Please check the details with the EBU nearer the date.
In our next article we will look in more detail at the individual players. Keep reading.
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