Scots in France

The Scotland teams for the World Bridge Games, previously known as the Olympiad, in Lille later this year have been announced. They are:

Open:
Jim Hay & Jun Nakamaru-Pinder
Charles & Vi Outred
David & Cathy Gerrard
npc: tba

Women: 
Anne Symons & Sheila Adamson
Liz McGowan & Sam Punch
Maida Grant & Sheila Macdonald
npc: tba

Seniors:
Iain Sime & John Murdoch
John Matheson & Willie Coyle
Brian Short & Alan Goodman

There were no trials, I believe due to lack of people interested in playing in the event. The SBU cannot be blamed for this, as the WBF made life difficult for many with a very late announcement of the location and timing of the championship, and then putting it in August, a time when many will already have made holiday plans. Personally, given the number of trials this season, I'd have selected the teams and not worried about more trials; of course that is not permitted in Scotland so the selectors must be pleased that they were not required.

In such circumstances it is pleasing to see that the Women and Seniors teams look competitive. Both teams use the core of the Home International and European teams with the introduction of the 'unlucky' fourth pair from the Euro trial.

Whereas it is very disappointing that none of the Camrose or Euro Open team are available for the event, the inclusion of Jim and Jun, who only missed out on a European spot by four imps, is especially pleasing. If there had been trials, I would have exempted them and made others compete for the remaining two places. A great opportunity, deserved after their performance in the Euro trial, for a young talent and an old codger to experience the challenges of bridge at the highest levels. I know that they will prepare thoroughly.

Although the Open team is not the strongest that Scotland could send, the Outreds and Gerrards made the semifinals of the Euro trials and their challenge is to maintain that standard over a long competition. David is also the only player on the team with Olympiad experience. I expect that they will prepare thoroughly too, if only to keep Jim quiet.

Naturally I wish all three teams the best of luck. I know supporters in Lille during August will be welcome and there is also the opportunity for everyone to play in the World Transnational Mixed Teams. If you've not already made plans.