Page 17 - ABF Newsletter August 2025

Introducing the Double Elimination Knockout
Sydney Spring Nationals unveils exciting new format for 2025
This October, the Sydney Spring Nationals is break- ing new ground with a bold revamp of the flag- ship TBIB Open Teams event. Inspired by one of the UK’s most prestigious tournaments, the Spring Foursomes, the new structure promises more excite- ment, more strategy, and more chances to win.
Double Elimination Knockout: A first for Australian bridge
For years, the Open Teams has followed a familiar format: a three-day Swiss leading to semifinals and finals. In 2025, that all changes. The event will debut a double elimination knockout format, ensuring every team gets multiple opportunities to stay in the action.
In this new setup, teams have “two lives.” Lose once and you remain in the Championship bracket. Lose twice and you drop into the Plate, a secondary knockout competition. A loss there doesn’t end your tournament – instead, you move into the Shield, a Swiss Teams event that runs to the final day of the teams.
Three levels, three trophies, and non-stop bridge – whether you’re fighting for the Championship title or battling it out in the Plate or Shield, every match matters.
Perfect for every player
The new format isn’t just for elite teams – it’s de- signed to engage everyone from seasoned compet- itors to everyday congress players. Head-to-head knockouts create intensity and drama, making every board count. Even if you lose early, you’re still com- peting for gold masterpoints, silverware, and serious bragging rights.
Speaking of masterpoints, there’s plenty of gold points on offer. All three events – Championship, Plate, and Shield – award gold points at the high- est national rate, with every match win contribut- ing to your tally.
What else is on the program?
While the Open Teams takes centre stage with its fresh format, the Sydney Spring Nationals’ much- loved events are still here:
Australian Bridge Federation Ltd. Newsletter: August 2025
2024 Spring National Teams champions
Phil Markey, David Wiltshire, Sophie Ashton, Joachim Haffer
• Dick Cummings Open Pairs closes the week in style.
• Intermediate and Restricted Teams return, offering competitive play at all levels.
• The Mixed Teams moves back to its traditional spot following the Open Teams.
How to enter
A new era of Australian bridge is here. With high stakes, innovative formats, and gold points galore, the Sydney Spring Nationals (18-26 October) is set to be the must-play event of the year.
Ready to take on the challenge? Entries are now
open via MyABF.com.au
Simply click on the calendar, search for Spring Na-
tionals, and all the details are at your fingertips.
Liam Milne, Chair, ABF Tournament Committee
The Gold Coast Bridge Club is replacing some of its sets of boards and will happily give away those that are usable.
For more information email Jane Parry at
janelparry1958@gmail.com
or phone 0403 369 467
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