Story by Don Marikovics (BBO: Dcmarik1)

Early in my experience playing bridge (1971 to be precise) while serving in the Army in Germany, I attended my very first regional tournament in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

It took place at an elegant hotel in a large ballroom in a very formal setting. It was the first session of the day, and after signing in we could enjoy a European breakfast buffet before play. The director then announced that everyone should go to their assigned tables and begin.

During the second or third round, the almost church-like atmosphere of the ballroom was shattered by a voice yelling "You passed?" followed a few moments later by an even louder "You WHAT?" Soon a table in the middle of the hall was surrounded by officials, and one of the couples was quietly escorted from the room.

Needless to say, everyone was anxious for the game to end to learn precisely what had caused the disturbance. The reason for the first outburst was a passed out hand. The opponent had loudly expressed his astonishment that a player had passed with 29 points. The second outburst was the result of the player's explanation for passing: "I didn't really know what to bid as I have never played bridge before this morning." As it turned out, the couple were guests at the hotel and had walked into the ballroom, saw the buffet, and signed up for breakfast.

Once they found out that a card game was included (apparently knowing how to play hearts or spades), they decided to stay and play. They successfully navigated the first few boards by passing and would have gotten further were it not for a powerhouse hand.

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