Editor's note:
Assel Garcia is one of BBO’s top performers in ACBL Daylong games. Last year she had 30 points, and this year she won the overall ACBL Daylong 20–50 race by earning 162.8 points.
My husband and I are enjoying the semi-retired life, which means we have time to try new things together. Five years ago, we took up golfing, and two years ago, I decided to delve into the world of bridge by taking lessons with another couple we're friends with. I thought it could be another fun and bonding experience for us. While my friends and my husband didn't share my enthusiasm for bridge, I have truly developed a passion for the game. I used to play chess online regularly, but I find bridge even more engaging. It challenges me to think critically and strategically, and I appreciate the social aspect of connecting with diverse individuals at the table. The bidding process is particularly captivating, and learning new conventions only adds to the excitement.
I have joined my local bridge club, obtained ACBL membership, and regularly play on BBO. Although I initially struggled with playing hands, the Bridge Master practice tool has been instrumental in improving my game.
When we moved to a new neighborhood, I discovered that one of our neighbors was a seasoned social bridge player. Despite his lack of experience in duplicate bridge, he agreed to be my partner.
During our drives to the bridge club, we would discuss the hands we played, our bidding system, and new conventions we learn. One day, I mentioned to my bridge partner that I had recently learned about takeout doubles in my bridge class and wanted to add it to our bidding system. He said that he is familiar with the takeout double, and on our way to the game that day, we discussed different responses to a partner's takeout double. It felt like we had everything sorted out.
That is until disaster struck during our first board that day. I confidently doubled after North's 1C opening. South passed, and to my dismay, my partner also passed(!). The look on my face when I saw dummy's hand was one for the ages! We ended up with -1450 on that board. Some bridge players at the club still remember my expression after seeing the dummy hand. That board made us known at the club. Despite the setback, we remain friends, but that was our last game together. Who knew a double at the one level could cause such chaos?
When it comes to playing bridge online, I've found comfort in playing with robots. I enjoy the predictability and reliability they offer. With robots, I know what to expect, and I can rest assured that they'll never leave me hanging with a double at 1-level. It's a different experience from playing with people, but sometimes a little certainty can go a long way in the world of bridge.
Thank you for this opportunity!