00:21 21 April 13 2014 San Diego, California by GS Jade Barrett, CsbNews correspondent Mario Andretti
“Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s the determination and commitment to unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek” – Mario Andretti
Sometimes my greatest desire is to play just one perfect hand.
The idea of attaining expert ability without adequate practice is a common one in all human endeavors – we all are surprised when we err attempting a seemingly mundane task. Like not drawing trumps, or failing to give partner a ruff.
During my Basic Training at Fort Gordon back in the late 1970’s, my Drill Instructor, a grizzled Sargent Major named Manuel Benavides, told his recruits that all the training he provided would not prevent us from being killed if we let our guard down. “Vigilance might not save you, but at least you won’t embarrass me!” Apparently shame should be a good motivator.
To maintain a state of heightened awareness is challenging, but it comes easier with practice. I have adopted the posture of an optimistic pessimist – hoping for circumstances to be favorable, while preparing for the unfortunate. It has stood me well.
The focused opponent is my greatest rival. They are always probing my defenses, challenging my view of the hand through deceptive bidding and play, all the while making their own effort to adequately communicate with their partner as conditions require. It is a good thing for at least one competitor to know what is the truth of the hand.
The matchpoint duplicate players, have a high priority on not only making the contract, but scoring overtricks as well. In fact, it is almost de rigueur to risk your contract for the almighty overtrick(s) if the odds favor taking the chance.
Some of the best players in the world are Brazilians, and some of the most enthusiastic players too! Our Brazilian Online Festival has appeal to players of all levels. Your team will play in a friendly but competitive atmosphere, with very well-organized scoring and experienced Directors to ensure a pleasant experience for all.
Come and join the competition through our Providers, BBO, Funbridge and Ourgame, all offering you this great opportunity – we look forward to some challenging tournaments!”
An endplay (also throw-in), in bridge, is a tactical play where a defender is put on lead at a strategic moment, and then has to make a play that loses one or more tricks.
The Championship is open to all players born on or after 1st January 1992 (Juniors & Girls) or born on or after 1st January 1997 (Youngsters) or born on or after 1st January 2002 (Kids) in good standing with their own NBOs.
