Bridge guru Audrey Grant visits Winnipeg

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This article was published 24/10/2016 (3556 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

How often do you get to with one of the best in the world in a particular field?

That happened Sept. 25 and 26 when one of the most famous bridge teachers anywhere, Audrey Grant, came to Winnipeg.

While she was in town, Grant taught a bridge teacher program, a multi-level program, and an absolute beginner program. She also met with Bridge Manitoba representatives to discuss the future of the game.

Grant has sold millions of books on bridge. When I first started playing duplicate bridge, my partner and I bought a pamphlet called Bridge at a Glance. Every time we made a bid and wondered if it was our best option, we would refer to the pamphlet. We decided that whatever Audrey suggested was best.

Meeting her was a real treat. We even went to the West End Cultural Centre to watch Sierra Noble launch her new album release.

I started playing competitive bridge four years ago when my buddy retired. He was looking for ways to fulfill his life in retirement as work had been such a big part of his days.

Why bridge?

It is a fun competitive game, a social outing and it challenges the mind. Exercising the brain is good for anyone and particularly good for seniors. I have even read that a stimulated brain can help boost the immune system and ward off infections. That sounds good to me.

What I do know is bridge has opened the door to new friends, some unexpected travel, and a lot of enjoyment, and I’ve been able to share these experiences with a life-long friend.

Bridge is a great game at any level and is played at many local venues, such as Norberry-Glenlee and Glenwood community centres, Mary Magdalene Church and many senior centres.

For those who wish to challenge themselves in a more competitive environment there are games every day and most evenings at the Bridge Manitoba Centre at 1460 Chevrier Blvd.

“Having Audrey Grant in Winnipeg was special,” said Marielle Brentnall, Bridge Manitoba president. “Sharing her knowledge and passion for the game will leave a lasting influence and help us introduce bridge to a broader audience.”

For more info about bridge in Manitoba email info@bridgemanitoba.org or call 204-231-6047.

John Hindle is a community correspondent for St. Vital.