SPOC Retains Bridge Cup

SPOC Retains Bridge Cup in 54 to 49 Win 

It was a very cold evening on 22nd of July when we resumed our annual contest against our oldest and most respected rivals, the PAC Old Collegians, PAOC. It was their turn to host the event and they did so by providing a generous supper and beverages in the warm and comfortable Colton room.

PAOC had appointed a new convenor, medical student George Bartley, who had returned a few days previously from Italy where he had been playing bridge as a member of Australia’s junior team. New also was our Director, Josh Tomlin, another young player who has represented our State at National level.

As there were unequal number of pairs, SPOC eleven to PAOC eight, we reverted to match point pairs which we had played for the past ten years with the exception of last year when a team’s contest was played between two teams of ten pairs. The pairs format allowed many more Boards (hands) to be played. The electronic scoring (”Bridgemates”) was quicker and we started play earlier yet finished in good time for the curfew.

Josh’s computer and expertise produced the results before we left the venue. The average (percentage) score for all SPOC players marginally exceeded that for PAOC. But the top eight SPOC average was 54% against 49% for PAOC.

There were some commendable individual scores. George Bartley with partner, retired anaesthetist Don Barrie had a top EW score of 68%; Retired medical specialists Rick Abbott and Richard Davis were top for NS with 69%. SPOC had the top three scores for NS: David Cherry and Justin Nugent, 62%, 2nd; Bill Bradshaw and Robert Black, 58% 3rd; for EW were brothers Jake and Matthew Howie with 51%.

It was an enjoyable evening of friendly rivalry between old acquaintances, well, and generously organised by the Collegians’ associations with admirable help from Mary-Ann Standish, PAOC Executive Officer and Prue Kline, SPOC Alumni Engagement Officer.

SPOC Bridge Convenor:
Robert Black (SHT 1956)