Full house for bridge tournament

Mangawhai’s bridge players made the most of home advantage at the club’s third annual tournament last month, taking top honours in two sections.

Puti Hookings and Eileen Roddy won the junior section, while Sue and Barry Belin finished first equal in the intermediate section. Dargaville’s Peter Ball and Pam Rope claimed the overall title.

The September 26 event drew 40 pairs to the community hall in Fagan Place, with entries from across Auckland and Northland.

Mangawhai Bridge Club president Sandra Hollis said the tournament had been booked out every year since it began.

“We had entries from several Auckland and Northland clubs, which is testament to our tournament’s popularity – and the quality of food served throughout the day! I think everyone enjoyed themselves.”

The tournament also brought visitors into the wider community, with some players making a weekend of their trip.

Established seven years ago, Mangawhai Bridge Club has close to 100 members.

For those keen to learn, the club runs an annual course open to all ages. Lessons take place over several weeks with an expert teacher, giving beginners time to build their skills.

Regular club sessions are held on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday evenings, with Sunday play during winter.

To enquire about the next learners’ course, email mangawhaibridgesecretary@gmail.com