Bridge players come up trumps

A CARD game popularised during the Jazz Age and at the height of the Great Depression has had enthusiasts vying for honours in the 61st National Bridge Congress contest in Port Elizabeth.

About 220 contract bridge competitors from across South Africa, Africa and the globe descended on Port Elizabeth last Sunday.

Forty teams and 100 pairs have been packing Port Elizabeth's Hellenic Hall in a bid for bridge glory.

The hall was abuzz with excitement late yesterday when two teams, Chemali and Apteker, squared off in their category final.

Tournament organiser Dianne Penlington said: "We have four guys from China and another four guys from Norway – who make up teams Wu and Stabell respectively. There are also people from Reunion and other African states.

"Also, the top players from Johannesburg and Cape Town are here."

Penlington is the Eastern Province representative on the South African Bridge Federation Committee, which oversees the competition.

This weekend will see pairs competing against each other, with the final taking place on Sunday.

Spectators are welcome. - Xolisa Phillip