Introduction: A Bridge Player’s Pilgrimage

There’s a unique energy that fills the air when you step into a major bridge tournament. This year, I found myself at the All Western Championship in Santa Clara, California—a regional event that’s as much about community and tradition as it is about competition. Nestled near Levi Stadium, with the buzz of Silicon Valley just outside, the venue was alive with the hum of cards, the quiet intensity of strategy, and the laughter of friends reunited. If you’re curious about the world of contract bridge, or considering taking your own journey from club games to the big stage, let me take you inside this remarkable event.

The Path to Regionals: From Club Games to the All Western Championship

When I first started playing bridge, my journey was much like anyone else’s: I read a few books, took some lessons, and played online. Eventually, I found myself at my local club, where the stakes were friendly and the points—known as black points—were the first tokens of progress. But bridge, like any great game, has levels. After club games come sectionals, where you compete for silver points and start to feel the thrill of a larger field.

The next step up is the regional tournament, and that’s where the All Western Championship comes in. Regionals are bigger, more competitive, and attract players from all over. Here in Northern California, we’re part of District 21 of the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL), which covers all of Northern California and is one of 25 districts spanning North America, Bermuda, and Mexico. It’s a vast, interconnected community, and regionals are where it all comes together.

The Santa Clara Experience: More Than Just Bridge

This year’s championship was held at a convention center bustling with activity. Not only was bridge in full swing, but the venue also hosted a chess tournament and a trading card game expo—think Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and sports cards. The result? A vibrant mix of strategy game enthusiasts, with curious onlookers poking their heads in to see what bridge was all about. It was a reminder that, at its core, bridge is part of a larger world of mind sports, and there’s always an opportunity to introduce new people to the game.

One of the most exciting aspects of this regional was the presence of younger players. Bridge has a reputation for being a game for the older generation, but events like this prove that the torch is being passed. The camaraderie, the shared passion, and the chance to meet people from all walks of life make these tournaments truly special.

Here’s a glimpse inside the venue: Watch the Reel | See the full YouTube video

The Role of Tournament Directors: Guardians of Fair Play

As someone who’s both played and directed at tournaments, I can’t overstate the importance of the tournament director. If something goes awry at the table—an irregularity, a dispute, or just a question about the rules—the director is there to ensure fairness. Don’t be afraid to call “Director, please!” It’s not about getting anyone in trouble; it’s about protecting everyone’s rights and keeping the game enjoyable for all.

Directors are like referees, armed with the laws of duplicate bridge and a commitment to even-handedness. For new players, this can be reassuring. The director’s presence means you can focus on playing your best, knowing that the integrity of the game is in good hands.

The All Western Championship: A Legacy Event

The All Western Championship isn’t just another tournament—it’s one of the oldest continuously running pair events in bridge, with a history stretching back nearly a century. Unlike most regionals, which feature mostly one-day events, this championship is a two-day pairs event. To advance, you must qualify on the first day—a format that raises the stakes and brings out the best in every player.

This year, the field was stacked with top local talent and players from out of state, many using the event as a warm-up for national and international competitions. Some were even preparing for upcoming tournaments in India and Dubai, highlighting the global reach of bridge and the opportunities for travel and adventure it offers.

Why We Play: Ego, Prestige, and the Pursuit of Excellence

One of the most fascinating things about bridge at this level is that there’s no big cash prize waiting at the end. Sure, you pay an entry fee, but the real rewards are ego, prestige, and the satisfaction of winning a title. For many, the dream is to claim a national or international championship, to have your name etched in the annals of bridge history.

This year, we celebrated recent victories by USA teams in international competitions—a testament to the strength and depth of American bridge. It’s inspiring to see friends and fellow competitors achieve on the world stage, and it fuels the desire to keep improving, keep competing, and keep the tradition alive.

The Bridge Community: Friendship, Travel, and Lifelong Learning

Perhaps the greatest gift of bridge is the community it creates. At every tournament, I reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share stories over dinner or between rounds. The game has taken me to places I might never have visited otherwise, and each event is a chance to learn, grow, and be part of something bigger than myself.

If you’re thinking about taking your bridge journey to the next level, I encourage you to dive in. Whether you’re playing for points, prestige, or just the joy of the game, there’s a place for you at the table.

Conclusion: Join the Journey

The All Western Championship in Santa Clara is more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of bridge, a gathering of minds, and a testament to the enduring appeal of this remarkable game. If you’re new to bridge, or just looking for your next adventure, I hope you’ll join us on this journey. The world of bridge is waiting, and there’s always room for one more at the table.